In what promises to be the highlight of the cricketing calendar, Pakistan and India will lock horns on September 7 in Dubai, as part of the Asia Cup 2025, now relocated to the UAE.
Despite mounting political tensions and speculation following the Pahalgam incident, organizers have confirmed that the tournament will proceed as scheduled. The Asia Cup will begin around September 4 or 5 and will follow the T20 format, aligning with ICC calendar goals.
India, the designated host, will continue to enjoy the commercial and media rights associated with the event, but all matches will be played on neutral ground due to unresolved cross-border tensions.
The structure includes:
- Group stage matches
- Super Four round
- Final showdown on September 21
Should both Pakistan and India qualify beyond the group stage, they could face off again on September 14, setting up the possibility of three showdowns in under three weeks.
An Indian broadcaster confirmed that participation is certain, citing lucrative television rights and massive global viewership. High-profile matches like these are central to the tournament’s appeal and financial success.
India has avoided traveling to Pakistan since 2008. As a result, high-stakes matches between the two rivals have predominantly been played in the UAE or other neutral locations.
The last meeting between the two was also held in Dubai during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, and it drew record-breaking viewership figures.
As preparations get underway, fans are eager to see iconic rivalries reignite. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Rizwan, Shubman Gill, and Haris Rauf are all expected to play pivotal roles.
Stay tuned for team announcements and ticketing details as the cricketing world gets ready for this epic showdown.
