Cricket fans, mark your calendars — India and Pakistan will face off in the Asia Cup 2025 on September 14 in the UAE. The blockbuster clash is finally official, and as expected, it’s already making headlines far beyond the cricket field.
The full schedule of Asia Cup 2025 is out, and the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan showdown is scheduled during the group stage on September 14. Although India is the official host, the tournament will be played in UAE due to political tensions.
With the match now confirmed, reactions are pouring in — some welcoming the decision, others calling it out.
Ganguly: “Cricket Should Never Stop”
Former Indian captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has come out in full support of the fixture.
“I have no problem with it. Cricket should continue. Yes, incidents like Pahalgam should never happen — but that doesn’t mean cricket must stop,” Ganguly said while speaking to Indian media.
He made it clear that while security concerns are real, they shouldn’t always dictate sporting relations.
“Whatever happened is in the past now. We must move forward. Sports must go on.”
In a fresh statement reported by NDTV, Ganguly clarified that while he personally supports the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup match, the final decision rests with the Government of India. “Let the Government decide,” he said, emphasizing that cricketing ties depend on political approval.
Kaneria: “So Now It’s Fine?”
On the other side of the border, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria didn’t hold back. He slammed India’s decision to now play Pakistan — after earlier boycotting a World Championship of Legends match against them.
In a strongly-worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Kaneria wrote:
“Indian players boycotted WCL matches with Pakistan in the name of patriotism. But now the Asia Cup match is fine? If cricket with Pakistan is okay, then why the earlier drama?”
He accused Indian players of using patriotism as PR, calling it a “double standard” that disrespects the spirit of the game.
What We Know So Far – Asia Cup 2025 Key Details:
- Dates: September 9 to 28
- Format: T20
- Official Host: India
- Venue: UAE (neutral location)
- Group A: India, Pakistan, UAE, Oman
- Group B: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong
- India vs Pakistan: Group match on Sept 14
- Possible Rematch: Sept 21 (Super Four) or Sept 28 (Final)
This Asia Cup also serves as a crucial warm-up for the T20 World Cup 2026, making it even more important for all teams involved.
Final Word
The India vs Pakistan cricket rivalry is bigger than just sport — and every fixture carries the weight of decades of history, politics, and passion. With both cricket boards agreeing to face off in this Asia Cup, fans are in for a high-voltage contest.
Whether you’re Team India or Team Pakistan, September 14 is going to be a day to remember.
Stay tuned for squad announcements, match previews, and everything you need to know about Asia Cup 2025.
