India dominated Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025, winning by six wickets in a one-sided match. However, cricket fans might get to see up to three more India vs Pakistan matches later this year in the Asia Cup, according to reports.
The Asia Cup 2025 will be played in the T20 format and will feature 19 matches. It is expected to take place between the second and fourth week of September.
Asia Cup 2025 Venue Shifted from India
The tournament was originally allotted to India, but due to political tensions between India and Pakistan, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has decided to hold it in a neutral venue. The final location is yet to be confirmed, but Sri Lanka and the UAE are the most likely options. However, the BCCI will still be the official host of the tournament.
A similar situation occurred with the Champions Trophy 2025, where Pakistan was the designated host, but India refused to travel there. As a result, India's matches were moved to Dubai.
ACC's Neutral Venue Policy
A document obtained by Cricbuzz reveals that the ACC has decided that whenever India or Pakistan are supposed to host the Asia Cup, it will be held at a neutral venue. This decision aims to avoid disputes between the two cricket boards.
Asia Cup 2025 Teams and Format
Eight teams will compete in the Asia Cup 2025:
- India
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Bangladesh
- Afghanistan
- UAE
- Oman
- Hong Kong
The tournament will have two groups of four teams each. India and Pakistan are always placed in the same group, ensuring at least one group-stage clash. If both teams qualify for the Super Four stage, they will meet again. If they both reach the final, fans will witness a third showdown between the arch-rivals.
This format increases the chances of multiple India vs Pakistan matches, making the tournament even more exciting for cricket lovers.