 "India likely to host Asia Cup 2025 in September at a neutral venue: Report")
The Asia Cup 2025, which will serve as a crucial preparatory event for the T20 World Cup 2026, is likely to be played in September at a neutral venue, despite India holding the hosting rights.
The previous edition of the tournament was played in the ODI format as a build-up to the 2023 50-over World Cup in India. However, this time, the Asia Cup will revert to the T20 format, offering teams an ideal platform to fine-tune their squads ahead of the global ICC event.
Neutral venue expected for political reasons
"The tournament will be held in September. India has the hosting rights, but it will be played in UAE or Sri Lanka," a Press Trust of India (PTI) report quoted an Asian Cricket Council (ACC) source as saying.
Although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially holds the hosting rights, the tournament is likely to take place at a neutral venue. The decision stems from ongoing political and logistical challenges between India and Pakistan, making it unlikely for the tournament to be held in India.
A similar situation unfolded in the Champions Trophy 2025, where India played all their matches in Dubai, despite Pakistan being the official hosts. Security concerns prevented the Indian team from traveling to Pakistan, reinforcing the need for a neutral venue.
India-Pakistan clashes to headline the tournament
The India-Pakistan rivalry will once again be the biggest draw of the competition. If both teams reach the final, they could face off three times in the tournament, adding to the anticipation.
The eight-team lineup for the Asia Cup 2025 will feature India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong.
India eyeing another title
The T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is expected to witness another high-voltage India-Pakistan clash in Sri Lanka.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →*Subscribe to Business Standard digital and get complimentary access to The New York Times
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
SAVE 25%
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
SAVE 46%
*Complimentary New York Times access for the 2nd year will be given after 12 months
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Subscribe
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
SAVE 25%