The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has announced updated match timings for the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025, set to take place in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to September 28. Afternoon matches will now start at 4:00 PM GST (5:30 PM IST), while evening fixtures will begin at 6:30 PM GST (8:00 PM IST).
The 2025 edition will be played in the T20 format, in line with the rotational policy between ODIs and T20Is since 2016, serving as preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup next year.
Why Were the Match Timings Changed?
The timings were revised to protect players and fans from Dubai’s intense afternoon heat. The new schedule also boosts primetime viewership in South Asia and offers a more comfortable stadium experience during the cooler evening hours in the Gulf.
Groups
Group A: India, Pakistan, UAE, Oman
Group B: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong China
The tournament opener will see Afghanistan face Hong Kong China in Abu Dhabi on September 9, while defending champions India begin their campaign against hosts UAE on September 10 in Dubai.
A Rich Legacy
India, the most successful team in Asia Cup history, have lifted the trophy eight times, followed by Sri Lanka (six titles) and Pakistan (two titles). Notably, Sri Lanka were the last side to win the Asia Cup in T20 format back in 2022, when they beat Pakistan in the final.
Key Fixtures
The much-awaited India vs Pakistan clash will take place on September 14 in Dubai at 8:00 PM IST. Another key group-stage contest will be Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka on September 13 in Abu Dhabi.
One scheduling adjustment includes the UAE vs Oman match on September 15, which will now start at 5:30 PM IST, having initially been slated for an afternoon slot.
Full Schedule (IST)
Sept 9: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong China, Abu Dhabi, 8:00 PM
Sept 10: India vs UAE, Dubai, 8:00 PM
Sept 11: Bangladesh vs Hong Kong China, Abu Dhabi, 8:00 PM
Sept 12: Pakistan vs Oman, Dubai, 8:00 PM
Sept 13: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi, 8:00 PM
Sept 14: India vs Pakistan, Dubai, 8:00 PM
Sept 15: UAE vs Oman, Abu Dhabi, 5:30 PM
Sept 15: Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong China, Dubai, 8:00 PM
Sept 16: Bangladesh vs Afghanistan, Abu Dhabi, 8:00 PM
Sept 17: Pakistan vs UAE, Dubai, 8:00 PM
Sept 18: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Abu Dhabi, 8:00 PM
Sept 19: India vs Oman, Abu Dhabi, 8:00 PM
Sept 20–26: Super 4s (Dubai & Abu Dhabi, all at 8:00 PM)
Sept 28: Final, Dubai
With top teams from across the continent set to battle for supremacy, the Asia Cup 2025 promises high-voltage cricketing action, historic rivalries, and a fitting lead-up to next year’s global T20 spectacle.
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