The Men’s ACC Asia Cup has always been a hotbed of drama, both on and off the field. The 17th edition begins Tuesday with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong in Dubai, setting the stage for a packed fortnight of high-octane cricket. India begin their campaign against hosts UAE the following day.
The tournament will run from September 9 to 28, featuring eight teams split into two groups, with the top two sides from each group advancing to the Super Four stage. Eleven of the 19 matches, including the final, will be played in Dubai, while Abu Dhabi will host the rest.
All Eyes on India vs Pakistan
The most anticipated clash of the group stages — India vs Pakistan — is scheduled for September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium. Depending on results, the two rivals could lock horns up to three times in the tournament, including the Super Fours and the final.
India, the defending champions and most successful side in Asia Cup history with eight titles, will once again enter as favourites. Sri Lanka, six-time champions, and Pakistan, two-time winners, are also strong contenders.
A Showcase for T20 Specialists
Since 2016, the Asia Cup has alternated between ODI and T20I formats. This year’s edition will be played as a T20I tournament, making it an important build-up for next year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Originally awarded to India, the hosting rights were shifted to the UAE due to geopolitical tensions after the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent skirmishes between India and Pakistan.
Kuldeep’s Return Under the Spotlight
While Afghanistan and Hong Kong battle in the opening match, much of the early attention centres on India’s squad balance, especially the return of mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav.
He’s a very professional athlete. His attitude since England, where he hardly got any game time, has been spot on. He knows what to do to get himself ready for T20 and white-ball cricket.
Kuldeep, who last played in India’s T20 World Cup triumph in Barbados, faces competition from Varun Chakravarthy for the second wrist-spinner’s slot.
Afghanistan Seek Strong Start
Afghanistan, despite a heavy defeat to Pakistan in the T20 Tri-series final two days ago, will look to begin with authority against a Hong Kong side yet to register a win at this level. Skipper Rashid Khan will rely on the experience of Mohammad Nabi and the young spin duo of Noor Ahmad and Ghazanfar.
Sri Lanka’s Campaign Begins September 13
Sri Lanka, placed in Group B alongside Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong, open their account against Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi. With two batting slots still uncertain, selectors will watch closely as Sri Lanka prepare for both the Asia Cup and the upcoming World Cup.
Fixtures to Note
• Sept 9: Afghanistan v Hong Kong, Dubai
• Sept 10: UAE v India, Dubai
• Sept 13: Bangladesh v Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi
• Sept 14: India v Pakistan, Dubai
• Sept 18: Afghanistan v Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi
• Sept 28: Final, Dubai
Most matches start at 8:00 PM IST to beat the desert heat, with just one day fixture: UAE vs Oman on Sept 15 in Abu Dhabi.
