The Asia Cup 2025 is set for a big change as organizers have reportedly changed the match timings to battle the scorching heat of the UAE. Originally, the Asia Cup 2025 matches were scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM local time in the UAE, but now the organizers have extended the timing.
Now, all the matches will begin at 6:30 PM local time and 8:00 PM IST, giving both players and fans some much-needed relief from the extreme conditions during the tournament. This move came after discussions around player safety, as temperatures in the UAE have been unusually high.
Organizers delay Asia Cup 2025 start time
Cricket boards, broadcasters, and tournament officials have reportedly agreed that playing under the blazing sun would not only affect the performance of the players but also increase the risk of fatigue, cramps, and injuries during the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.
By shifting the matches to evening hours, the tournament promises cooler playing conditions and a more enjoyable viewing experience for fans at the stadiums. A News24 journalist posted on X: “Big Breaking News.” Asia Cup 2025 Matches Timings Changed. The match will now start at 6:30 PM local time and 8 PM Indian time because of extremely warm conditions in the UAE.”
Dubai to host 11 games, including the Asia Cup 2025 Final
Meanwhile, the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 is all set to kick off on September 9, with the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian cricket team starting their campaign against the UAE on September 10 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai.
But all eyes are on September 14, when Dubai will turn into a battlefield for the mother of all clashes, India vs Pakistan. Well, the fans might witness the arch-rivals face off up to three times if both teams advance through the Super 4 and into the final of the continental tournament.
A total of 19 matches will be played in the tournament, with the Dubai International Cricket Stadium hosting 11 games, including the final, while Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi will host the rest of the matches. This year’s edition will see eight teams competing for the championship.
Asia Cup returns in T20 format as 8 teams battle for glory
The teams are India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong, and they are split into two groups. Top teams from the league phase will progress to the Super 4 stage. From there, the top two teams will play the title clash in Dubai.
Group A features India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, while Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong are slotted in Group B. The tournament opener will be between Afghanistan and Hong Kong, China, on September 9. This time, the Asia Cup will be played in the T20 format, keeping in mind the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Sri Lanka last lifted the Asia Cup trophy in the T20 format back in 2022, when they defeated Pakistan in the final. All participating teams have already announced the squads for the tournament, except for the UAE, the host nation, but the BCCI is the original host of the tournament.