Exclusive: India-Pakistan to be in same group as Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to be hosted by BCCI will take place at these venues

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) participated virtually in the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting held on July 24. The primary agenda of the meeting was to discuss the schedule and venues for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

Originally scheduled to be hosted by India in September, the tournament's future came into uncertainty after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, as India had also cancelled almost all visas issued to Pakistanis and had set a deadline for them to return to their country. This includes medical visas for patients undergoing treatment in India. Both nations have also ended all visas issued to each other under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme or SVES. These were issued to diplomats, artistes, actors, sports persons, among select other categories of individuals.
 

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Speculation had emerged that India might withdraw from hosting duties, and doubts were also raised about Pakistan's participation. There were even rumours suggesting that India and Pakistan might be placed in separate groups.

However, a BCCI source close to Sports Tak revealed that the BCCI has confirmed its readiness to host the tournament—albeit at a neutral venue. The entire Asia Cup 2025 is now expected to be held in the UAE, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the likely hosts. Additionally, both India and Pakistan will be placed in the same group for the tournament.

The BCCI has also signed an agreement with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), securing three venues, although only two will be used for the Asia Cup matches.

A tentative window for the tournament has been proposed, starting from September 7 and running until the third or fourth week of the month.

Final decisions regarding the schedule and commercial arrangements will be taken in the coming days by BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla and ACC Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The two are also expected to consult with tournament sponsors before making the official announcement. 

The Asia Cup is considered a rehearsal for the World Cup, so the tournament will take place in T20 format, considering the upcoming World Cup's format. 

The last edition of the marquee event was played in ODI format in 2023, where India defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets as the hosts were bowled out for a paltry 54 in Colombo. The last time the Asia Cup was played in the T20 format, Sri Lanka beat Pakistan by 23 runs to win the trophy.