DUBAI( The COW News Digital)Cricket fans around the globe can finally mark their calendars, as the highly anticipated clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India in the Asia Cup 2025 has been officially scheduled for September 7 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Despite rising political tensions following the recent Pahalgam incident, speculations about the potential cancellation of the Asia Cup have been laid to rest. The prestigious tournament will go ahead as planned in the UAE, with India retaining official hosting rights but agreeing to move the matches to neutral venues due to security concerns.
According to reliable sources, the Asia Cup 2025 is set to begin on September 4 or 5, with the Pakistan-India group stage encounter locked in for September 7. Cricket authorities have confirmed the tournament will follow the T20 format, making every clash even more electrifying in the run-up to the ICC T20 World Cup next year.
Organizers expect up to three potential showdowns between the neighboring rivals. If both sides progress from the group stage, they will meet again in the Super Four round on September 14, and possibly once more in the grand final on September 21, assuming both qualify.
Though India is officially the host, the decision to relocate the event to the UAE was a mutual agreement, acknowledging the ongoing political strain and ensuring a neutral and secure environment for all participants. A spokesperson from an Indian broadcaster confirmed, “The tournament will proceed in September, and India will participate as scheduled.”
An Indian board representative added, “Despite tensions, India has never refused to play against Pakistan in ICC tournaments, largely due to the massive commercial stakes tied to global broadcasting rights—most of which are held by Indian media outlets.”
The last time Pakistan and India met on the field was during the Champions Trophy 2025, also hosted in Dubai. Since 2008, bilateral series have remained suspended, with India repeatedly opting out of tours to Pakistan due to political issues.
Regardless of the backstory, fans from both nations—and across the cricketing world—are eager to witness the thrill of one of sport’s fiercest rivalries.
