Rising Afghanistan, hosts UAE, and surprise packages like Oman and Hong Kong add fresh fire to the tournament
Dubai [UAE], September 9 – The wait is finally over. The 2025 Asia Cup in T20 format begins today with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong at Abu Dhabi in the opening clash. Cricket fans across the continent are bracing for high-octane encounters, as traditional giants India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka prepare to face off against fast-improving challengers like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and host nation UAE.
For India, the campaign starts tomorrow in Dubai against UAE. It will also mark the beginning of a new chapter under Suryakumar Yadav, who captains the Men in Blue after leading them to T20 World Cup glory earlier this year.
Tournament format and groups
The tournament is split into two groups:
- Group A: India, Pakistan, UAE, Oman
- Group B: Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong
India’s most anticipated clash against arch-rivals Pakistan is set for October 14, while their group stage campaign wraps up against Oman on September 19.
The Super Four stage begins on September 20, with the top two sides from each group battling it out in Dubai. The final is scheduled for September 28, promising a blockbuster showdown.
Sri Lanka defend, Pakistan rebuild, Afghanistan rise
Defending champions Sri Lanka, who last lifted the T20 Asia Cup in 2022, arrive with a balanced squad under Charith Asalanka. Pakistan, now captained by Salman Ali Agha, have injected a fresh wave of power-hitters to revive their T20 batting order.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan, led by Rashid Khan, continue to evolve as a major force in world cricket. After their memorable semifinal run at the T20 World Cup, they will be eager to cement their place among the elite. Bangladesh too, under Litton Das, remain unpredictable but dangerous, capable of upsetting any big team on their day.
For the associate nations—UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong—the Asia Cup is a stage to script history. With passionate crowds behind them, a few shock upsets could make this edition unforgettable.
India’s bowling puzzle: Morkel weighs in
On the eve of India’s opener, bowling coach Morne Morkel offered insights into team strategy, stressing the importance of adapting to UAE pitches.
“We need to go and look at the wicket. At the moment, we are covering all bases. Once we see the grass cover and surface conditions, we’ll decide our bowling combination,” Morkel said.
He praised Kuldeep Yadav, who despite missing out on game time in England, has remained focused and professional. With 69 wickets in 40 T20Is at an average of just 14.07, Kuldeep remains one of India’s biggest weapons.
Morkel also underlined the role of all-rounders like Shivam Dube, urging them to sharpen both batting and bowling skills. “We want no stone unturned. On the day, we’ll need someone to step up with both bat and ball,” he added.
The South African great further highlighted the value of part-time bowlers in expanding selection options, a strategy India could use to gain the edge in crunch matches.
Momentum over match practice
India haven’t played a T20I since February, but Morkel brushed off concerns, expressing full faith in the team’s preparation.
“Once you put the Indian shirt on, it’s about match battle. These guys know how to raise their game. I’m sure they’ll deliver,” he said.
Asia Cup 2025 squads
(Full squad lists of all participating teams retained for reference at the end of this article.)