The Asia Cup 2025 kicks off in the UAE, setting the stage for fierce battles, historic rivalries, and Sri Lanka’s quest to reclaim continental dominance ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup.
The wait is finally over. The Asia Cup 2025 begins today (September 9) in the UAE, with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi to ignite three weeks of thrilling cricket. The tournament will run until September 28, featuring eight nations chasing regional supremacy in the T20 format—a crucial dress rehearsal ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year in India and Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka eyeing another continental crown
Six-time champions Sri Lanka enter this year’s competition with confidence and expectation. Having previously lifted the trophy in both ODI and T20 formats, the Lions are aiming to reaffirm their dominance on the continental stage.
Sri Lanka will open their campaign against Bangladesh on September 13 in Abu Dhabi (8:00 PM IST). Fixtures against Hong Kong and Afghanistan will follow swiftly, giving the team management a chance to experiment with combinations before the high-stakes Super Fours. With the World Cup looming, every clash in the Asia Cup is more than just a game—it is preparation for the grander battle ahead.
Tournament structure
The eight teams have been divided into two groups:
- Group A: India, Oman, Pakistan, UAE
- Group B: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka
The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Super Fours, from which the best two sides advance to the final on September 28 in Dubai.
Venues
- Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
- Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Dubai will host 11 matches, including the grand finale, while Abu Dhabi will stage the remaining eight.
Match timings
- Evening matches: 8:00 PM IST (6:30 PM UAE)
- Day match: 5:30 PM IST (4:00 PM UAE, September 15 – UAE vs Oman in Abu Dhabi)
Sri Lanka’s group stage fixtures (IST)
- September 13 (Saturday): Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh – Abu Dhabi, 8:00 PM
- September 15 (Monday): Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong – Dubai, 8:00 PM
- September 18 (Thursday): Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan – Abu Dhabi, 8:00 PM
If Sri Lanka progresses, they will feature in the Super Fours beginning September 20, with the grand finale scheduled for September 28 in Dubai (8:00 PM IST).
Spotlight clash: India vs Pakistan
While Sri Lanka focuses on their own campaign, global attention will be on the India vs Pakistan clash on September 14 in Dubai (8:00 PM IST). Depending on results, the fierce rivals could face off up to three times, including in a potential final showdown.
What’s at stake for Sri Lanka
For the Lions, the Asia Cup is more than just regional bragging rights. It offers a chance to:
- Sharpen strategies in the T20 format.
- Test bench strength ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup.
- Build momentum and confidence against Asia’s toughest opponents.
Fans in Sri Lanka will hope the team uses its rich Asia Cup legacy to craft another unforgettable run—this time under the scorching desert skies of the UAE.
