On July 26, 2025, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announced the schedule for the 2025 Asia Cup. The highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan in Group A is scheduled for September 14 in the UAE. Amidst ongoing speculation, sources from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed IANS that India, as the host nation, cannot withdraw from the tournament or the crucial match against Pakistan.
BCCI sources stated, “India cannot withdraw from the Asia Cup or the Pakistan match. The ACC meeting finalised the decision.” The T20-format tournament will be held in the UAE from September 9 to 28. India and Pakistan are placed in Group A, along with the UAE and Oman. The match is scheduled to take place at Dubai International Stadium and follows recent political tensions, including India’s withdrawal from a July 2025 World Championship of Legends game. per Hindustan Times.
Asia Cup 2025 Format and Schedule
ACC President Mohsin Naqvi announced that the Asia Cup 2025 will take place from September 9 to 28 in the UAE. For the first time, eight teams will participate, divided into two groups: Group A comprises India, Pakistan, the UAE, and Oman, while Group B includes Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka.
India-Pakistan clash on September 14 to headline Asia Cup 2025
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✍️ @toi_gauravG #INDvPAK #INDvsPAK #AsiaCup
— TOI Sports (@toisports) July 27, 2025The top teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage, with the final scheduled for September 28. This tournament could feature up to three matches between India and Pakistan. The T20 format of the Asia Cup aligns with preparations for the 2026 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Political strains, intensified by the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, fueled uncertainty, with India initially threatening to boycott the ACC meeting, per The Times of India. BCCI’s virtual attendance, led by Rajeev Shukla, confirmed participation.
Read: Asia Cup 2025 Set for UAE From September 9-28
The confirmed clash, expected to draw 700 million viewers, underscores cricket’s diplomatic role amid India-Pakistan tensions. BCCI’s commitment ensures a high-stakes tournament, boosting the UAE’s hosting profile.
The BCCI’s confirmation quells withdrawal rumours, setting the stage for an electrifying India-Pakistan match. Asia Cup 2025 promises intense cricket and global attention.
