The 2025 Asia Cup, which was originally slated to be hosted by India, is now highly likely to be moved to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this September due to persisting political tensions between India and Pakistan, according to multiple credible sources.
While India retains the official hosting rights of the tournament, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is expected to finalize the UAE as a neutral venue in the coming days. The UAE has a solid track record of organizing major international cricket tournaments, including the T20 World Cup 2021 and previous editions of the Asia Cup, making it a logical alternative.
Neutral Ground Amid Cross-Border Frictions
The decision comes amid diplomatic and sporting friction between India and Pakistan, with reports suggesting that conducting the event entirely in India could lead to a boycott or non-participation concerns from Pakistan. In light of these complexities, the ACC is aiming for a compromise: India as the “host on paper”, but all matches being played in UAE — particularly in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
A final verdict from the ACC is expected soon.
According to recent Urdu media reports, ACC President Mohsin Naqvi is expected to make an official announcement soon regarding the final decision on the Asia Cup 2025 venue. The reports reaffirm that the UAE is the most likely location, although India will remain the official host on record.
Tournament Format & Schedule
Asia Cup 2025 will be played in the T20 format, serving as a preparatory event for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The two-week tournament will feature 19 matches, with participation from eight teams, making it one of the largest Asia Cups in recent years.
Due to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, reports suggest that Pakistan is also set to play all its Asia Cup matches at a neutral venue.
While Sri Lanka was also considered as an alternative host, the UAE emerged as the frontrunner due to its infrastructure, neutrality, and accessibility for all teams.
India is also scheduled to host two major ICC tournaments following the Asia Cup — the Women’s World Cup 2025 and the Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026.
Tri-Nation T20 Series Before the Asia Cup?
In a related development, sources also revealed that a tri-nation T20I series involving Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE is being planned in the Emirates ahead of the Asia Cup. Originally, Afghanistan was to tour Pakistan in August for a bilateral series, but discussions are underway to convert it into a triangular event.
A Decision Expected Soon
ACC President Mohsin Naqvi is expected to issue an official statement soon regarding the final venue decision. The Asian Cricket Council is expected to formally announce the new venue for the Asia Cup 2025 in the coming days. This would mark the second consecutive time that the Asia Cup has been moved due to political considerations involving India and Pakistan, after the 2023 hybrid model saw Pakistan host a limited number of matches.
