The Asia Cup is not just a cricket tournament—it is a celebration of the sport across the Asian continent. Since its inception in 1984, the competition has become a battleground where rivalries ignite, legends are born and fans unite under the banner of cricket. With Asia Cup 2025 approaching, the excitement is at its peak. This detailed guide explores the journey of the Asia Cup, its significance in world cricket and everything fans need to know about the upcoming edition.
The Beginning of the Asia Cup
The Asia Cup was established in 1984 under the supervision of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Its main objective was to bring together the cricket-playing nations of Asia and strengthen sporting ties. Its first edition was held in Sharjah, UAE, featuring three teams – India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
- India won the first Asia Cup by defeating both rivals in the round-robin format.
- Over time, the tournament expanded and included teams such as Bangladesh, Afghanistan, UAE, Oman and Hong Kong.
The Asia Cup soon gained recognition as a platform where Asian countries could hone their skills ahead of major ICC events.
Evolution of the tournament format
Unlike most tournaments, the Asia Cup is unique as it is played in rotation between ODI (50-overs) and T20I (20-overs) formats depending on the upcoming ICC event.
Until 2014 – the tournament was played only in ODI format.
- Since 2016 – The ACC decided to have a rotation between ODI and T20I formats.
- 2016: Played in T20 format ahead of the T20 World Cup.
- 2018: Returned to ODI format ahead of the 2019 ODI World Cup.
- 2022: T20 format (UAE).
- 2023: ODI format (co-hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan).
- 2025: T20 format (in line with T20 World Cup 2026).
This change has allowed teams to adapt to the demands of different formats, making the Asia Cup even more relevant in modern cricket.
List of Asia Cup winners and team records
For over 40 years, the Asia Cup has seen fierce competition, but few countries have consistently dominated.
- India: 8 titles (most successful team).
- Sri Lanka: 6 titles (remarkable consistency).
- Pakistan: 2 titles (strong showing in big matches).
- Bangladesh: Three-time runners-up, yet to win a trophy.
- Afghanistan: An emerging force that can upset the bigger teams.
This balance of dominance and unpredictability makes the Asia Cup a tournament to watch every time.
Iconic rivalries in the Asia Cup
The Asia Cup is renowned for its fierce rivalries, particularly:
India vs Pakistan
- The biggest match in cricket, watched by millions around the world.
- Often it is more than just a game—it is a clash of pride, passion and history.
- Each edition guarantees a nail-biting India-Pakistan clash.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan
- Known for nail-biting, thrilling encounters.
- The two teams have met in the final several times, creating a strong rivalry.
Bangladesh vs India
- Over the past decade, Bangladesh has challenged India in several finals, giving the contest an emotional edge.
Afghanistan vs Pakistan
- A new-age rivalry fuelled by Afghanistan’s rapid growth.
- Known for thrilling encounters and fierce competition.
Asia Cup 2025: Upcoming Edition
The 17th edition of the Asia Cup will be held in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28, 2025. It promises to be one of the most competitive editions ever.
Tournament Format
- The 8 teams are divided into two groups of four each.
- The top two teams from each group qualify for the Super Four stage.
- The top two teams from the Super Four will clash in the Final.
Participating Teams
- India
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Bangladesh
- Afghanistan
- UAE
- Oman
- Hong Kong
Main Events
- India vs Pakistan: September 14, 2025 (Dubai).
- India vs UAE: September 10, 2025.
- Final: September 28, 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
Match Timings
- 18 out of the 19 matches will start at 8:00 PM IST (6:30 PM local time).
- The only exception is the UAE vs Oman match, which is scheduled to start earlier.
Team Analysis: Who is in a strong position in 2025?
India
- Most successful Asia Cup team with 8 titles.
- Captain: Suryakumar Yadav (T20 specialist).
- Key Players: Shubman Gill, Tilak Verma, Jasprit Bumrah.
- India’s balanced squad comprising of young and experienced stars makes them favourites.
Pakistan
- Always dangerous in T20 cricket.
- Strong fast bowling attack led by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.
- Batting relies on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
Sri Lanka
- Defending champions of the 2022 T20 edition.
- Young team, but highly unpredictable.
- Spin bowling is their strongest weapon.
Bangladesh
- Still looking for their first Asia Cup trophy.
- Heavily dependent on Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim.
- Have the ability to trouble the top teams.
Afghanistan
- The real dark horse.
- World-class spin attack led by Rashid Khan and Mujeeb ur Rahman.
- Batting depth still a concern, but it is improving.
UAE, Oman and Hong Kong
- Associate nations are getting valuable experience.
- Capable of performing unexpectedly against big teams.
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Asia Cup 2025 Squad
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Asia Cup 2025 Schedule
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Asia Cup 2025 India Squad
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Players to watch out for :
- Suryakumar Yadav (India): Known as “Mr. 360”, he will play a key role in T20 matches.
- Babar Azam (Pakistan): One of the best batsmen in the world.
- Rashid Khan (Afghanistan): The deadliest spinner in T20 cricket.
- Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka): Match-winner with both bat and ball.
- Shubman Gill (India): Future superstar in T20 cricket.
- Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan): Deadly new-ball bowler.
Why Asia Cup matters
- Preparation for the ICC tournament – a great practice for the World Cup.
- Regional pride – teams play with immense passion to assert Asian supremacy.
- Fan engagement – creates unforgettable cricket moments.
- Opportunity for smaller teams – UAE, Hong Kong and Oman get a chance to play against world-class opponents.
Memorable moments of Asia Cup
- MS Dhoni’s captaincy debut in 2008, where India dominated but lost in the final.
- Shahid Afridi’s last ball six against India in 2014.
- Bangladesh emerging as a serious contender by reaching multiple finals.
- Virat Kohli’s brilliant performance (183 runs) against Pakistan in 2012.
- Rohit Sharma’s leadership in 2018, which led India to yet another trophy.
Challenges facing Asia Cup
- Political tensions between India and Pakistan sometimes affect the schedule.
- A cricket calendar packed with ICC events and franchise leagues.
- Logistical issues in many countries hosting.
Despite these challenges, the Asia Cup continues to thrive as a major event in world cricket.
Future of Asia Cup
Looking ahead, it is expected to grow in scale and influence:
- Greater participation from associate nations.
- Women’s Asia Cup likely to be promoted on a similar scale.
- Broadcast rights will expand the tournament’s reach worldwide.
- Future editions likely to include teams like Nepal.
Live Streaming & TV Broadcast in India
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TV Broadcast: All matches will be telecast live on the Sony Sports Network.
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Online Streaming: Matches will be available on SonyLIV. Viewers can subscribe directly or access SonyLIV through bundled services that include multiple OTT platforms.
This ensures fans in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and other parts of the subcontinent can enjoy every ball.
Live Streaming & TV Broadcast by Country
Here’s a breakdown of where fans across the world can watch the tournament:
Pakistan
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TV: Ten Sports
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Streaming: Tapmad app and website
Bangladesh
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TV: Gazi TV (GTV)
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Streaming: Toffee and Rabbithole apps
Sri Lanka
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TV: SLRC (Channel Eye)
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Streaming: Local broadcasters will provide coverage (updates closer to the event).
UAE & Middle East
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TV: CricLife MAX (available on eLife TV and Switch TV)
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Streaming: CricLife MAX app and digital platforms
United States & Canada
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Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar
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TV: Coverage through partnered sports networks
United Kingdom
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TV: TNT Sports
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Streaming: TNT Sports app and website
Australia & New Zealand
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Streaming: YuppTV (digital broadcast across Oceania)
South Africa & Sub-Saharan Africa
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TV: SuperSport
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Streaming: SuperSport app and website
Conclusion
Asia Cup 2025 is not just another cricket tournament—it is a platform where rivalries grow, young players emerge, and cricket enthusiasts from across Asia come together. India enter as strong contenders, Pakistan and Sri Lanka bring unpredictability, Bangladesh crave their first title, and Afghanistan look to stun the giants. The inclusion of associate nations like UAE, Oman and Hong Kong makes it even more exciting.
From its humble beginnings in 1984 to becoming a world-renowned cricket spectacle, the Asia Cup has written countless stories. The 2025 edition promises to add another unforgettable chapter to its glorious history.
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