The upcoming Men’s Asia Cup 2025, set to begin on September 9, has already sparked excitement, especially with the anticipated India vs Pakistan clash. Despite rising tensions, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that there is absolutely no risk to the India-Pakistan match scheduled for September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium.
Both teams, placed in Group A alongside UAE and Oman, are expected to meet in the group stage, and if both progress, there could be a possibility of them facing each other again in the Super 4s and potentially the final. The match promises to be a high-octane contest, given the fierce rivalry between the two teams.
ECB Clarifies: Asia Cup is Different from WCL
Amid growing calls for India to boycott matches against Pakistan due to the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, the ECB has stepped in to provide reassurance. ECB COO Subhan Ahmed emphasized that the Asia Cup is not comparable to private tournaments like the World Championship of Legends (WCL), where India had previously pulled out of playing against Pakistan during the 2025 edition.
“While I cannot give a formal guarantee, there is no risk of Pakistan and India not playing. The Asia Cup cannot be compared to private tournaments like the World Championship of Legends,” Ahmed said in response to concerns raised about the tournament.
India and Pakistan in Same Group
India and Pakistan are placed in Group A of the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup, alongside UAE and Oman. Both teams are expected to make it to the Super 4s and could face each other multiple times, including a potential final match if both qualify.
The Asia Cup 2025 will be a T20 format tournament, providing a valuable opportunity for teams to prepare for the T20 World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka.
Tournament Details
The Men’s Asia Cup 2025 will run from September 9 to 28, with matches scheduled in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. India’s first match is scheduled for September 10, where they will face the UAE. The final will take place at the Dubai International Stadium on September 28.
Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. With its competitive nature, the Asia Cup will undoubtedly be a thrilling preparation ground for the teams heading into the 2026 T20 World Cup.
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