The approaching Asia Cup 2025 has seen a noteworthy alteration in its timetable, with 18 of the 19 games now set to begin at a different hour than initially intended, a decision prompted by the sweltering heat anticipated in the United Arab Emirates. The Asian Cricket Council has officially announced this substantial adjustment to the schedule, designed to shield players from the intense desert environment during the September competition.
When desert heat meets Asia Cup 2025 fever
The revised timeline responds to weather forecasts that predict temperatures could climb to 40 degrees Celsius during September in the UAE. Cricket organizations from participating countries pushed for the change in timing to safeguard players from potential heat-related problems, like weariness, lack of hydration, and possible injuries.
According to the updated timing arrangement, all day-night matches of the event are now slated to commence at 6:30 PM Gulf Standard Time, equivalent to 8:00 PM Indian Standard Time, which marks a 30-minute pushback from the original 6:00 PM local start times. However, one key exception exists within this new schedule: the match between UAE and Oman on September 15, will proceed as the competition’s only daytime game, commencing at 4:00 PM local time or 5:30 PM IST. The timing modifications also encompass the tournament’s most prominent game, with the final on September 28 also adopting the revised 6:30 PM local time slot, maintaining consistency across all evening games.
The competition will run from September 9 to 28, with Dubai International Cricket Stadium playing host to 11 matches including the final, while Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi will accommodate eight matches. Broadcasters have approved the timing adjustments, keeping player well-being in mind, guaranteeing that matches happen during the cooler evening periods for improved playing conditions. Key fixtures under the updated schedule include India‘s initial game against UAE on September 10 at 8:00 PM IST, and the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan game on September 14 at the same time, both in Dubai.
India starts to prepare for the 2026 T20I World Cup
This Asia Cup signifies more than simply a regional championship; it acts as a vital practice period for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Five of the eight participating teams will be competing in the following year’s World Cup, making this event particularly essential for India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag highlighted the competition’s significance on Sony Sports Network, stating that “this Asia Cup can act as a significant preparation phase for our 2026 T20 World Cup. It presents a chance to assess which new players deserve opportunities and identify potential squad members“. India is poised to defend its title with Suryakumar Yadav leading, and Shubman Gill, the Test captain, taking on the role of vice-captain following his successful return to the T20I structure.
The Indian team showcases a mix of seasoned athletes and rising stars, including highly ranked T20 batters Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma, along with accomplished bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh. The competition’s format splits the eight teams into two groups, with the top two from each group moving into the Super Four stage, which concludes with the final showdown on September 28.
