Asia Cup 2025: Everything You Need to Know Before the Cricket Festival Starts

The Asia Cup returns in 2025 and it’s shaping up to be the biggest cricket party in the region. Fans are already buzzing about the dates, venues, and which side will lift the trophy. If you’re wondering when the games begin, who’s playing, and how to catch every ball, keep reading. This guide gives you the core info in plain English so you don’t miss a single moment.

When and Where: The Full Match Calendar

The tournament kicks off on June 12, 2025 and runs until July 5, 2025. Eight teams are split into two groups, and each team plays three round‑robin games. The top two from each group move to the semi‑finals, followed by the final. All matches are scheduled in three host cities: Dubai (UAE), Colombo (Sri Lanka), and Hyderabad (India). The final will be held at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium on July 5.

Team Line‑ups and Key Players to Watch

India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and the United Arab Emirates complete the eight‑team roster, with Nepal and Oman joining as the two qualifiers. Each side has announced a 15‑player squad, and a few names stand out:

• Virat Kohli (India) – still the run‑machine, leading the chase in big games.
• Babar Azam (Pakistan) – the captain’s calm hands can turn any match.
• Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka) – a power‑hitter who can change the tempo in a single over.
• Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – his leg‑spin is a nightmare for any batsman.
• Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan) – fast‑bowling spearhead who loves the new ball.

Keep an eye on the youngsters too. Nepal’s Pradeep Pandey and Oman’s Ali Al-Malki have been in hot form and could cause upsets.

All squads are set, and the coaches have hinted at rotating players to keep the lineup fresh. Expect a few surprise changes once the group stage begins.

Now that you know the schedule and the stars, you’ll want to know how to watch the matches without glitches. The tournament is broadcast live on several platforms. In the UK and Ireland, Sky Sports and the Cricket Live app hold the rights. In the sub‑continent, Star Sports and the Disney+ Hotstar streaming service will carry every game. For viewers in the Middle East, the official tournament website streams free highlights and live scores. If you prefer radio commentary, the BBC World Service offers a dedicated cricket feed during match days.

Don’t forget the handy tips: set reminders for your favourite team’s games, check time‑zone conversions, and test your streaming app before the first match. A stable Wi‑Fi connection or a solid 4G/5G plan is key to avoid buffering when the action heats up.

Finally, a quick note on predictions. While India and Pakistan are the clear favourites, the group stage could see a shock if Afghanistan’s spinners dominate on slower tracks in Colombo. Bangladesh’s batting depth gives them a solid chance to reach the semi‑finals, and the host nation UAE will likely use home‑ground support to push past the group stage.

With the schedule locked, squads announced, and viewing options sorted, you’re ready to enjoy Asia Cup 2025 to the fullest. Grab your snacks, set your alarms, and let the cricket festivities begin!