The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to host the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 T20 tournament in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with an official announcement expected soon, according to sources within the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). The decision was reportedly reached during a recent ACC meeting attended by representatives from all 25 member nations, with BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla joining the session virtually.
An ACC source, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to PTI: “The BCCI will host the Asia Cup in the UAE. India is likely to play all its matches in Dubai. There are still deliberations on the scheduling.”
The tournament, scheduled for September, is expected to last a little over two weeks. The final date is being carefully considered, as India is set to begin a Test series against the West Indies in the final week of the month. The scheduling will aim to avoid any conflict between the two events.
When asked to confirm the development, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia remained cautious. “Our vice-president Rajeev Shukla ji attended the ACC meeting. He will brief the members. I don’t believe in speculations, so you will get to know officially in a few days,” he told PTI.
The return of the Asia Cup to the UAE once again places the region as a neutral venue suitable for high-stakes cricket, especially considering the geo-political tensions that have made it difficult for India and Pakistan to play bilateral series. The possibility of an India vs Pakistan showdown at the continental event is already generating excitement among fans and broadcasters.
Meanwhile, in Dhaka, ACC chairman and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi also refrained from confirming the marquee clash. “Let’s wait for the official schedule,” he stated.
As preparations begin, the focus will now shift to finalizing dates, fixtures, and venues for one of Asia’s most anticipated cricket tournaments.
