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As the intense Test series against England draws to a close, the Indian cricket team is bracing for a rapid transition, with the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 scheduled to kick off in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. This edition of the continental showpiece will be contested in the T20 format, a crucial strategic move as it serves as an invaluable dress rehearsal for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026, which India and Sri Lanka are set to co-host.
India, entering the tournament as the defending champions, is widely expected to field a ‘new-look team’ following the recent retirements of several senior players, including giants like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the shortest as well as longest format.
Asia Cup 2025: An expanded format and high-stakes rivalries
The Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 is poised to be the largest iteration yet, featuring an expanded format with eight teams competing, up from the traditional six. Despite India being the official hosts, the tournament will be held in the UAE across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, a decision made in line with the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) long-standing neutral venue policy for matches involving India and Pakistan.
The tournament schedule promises high-voltage drama, particularly within Group A, which pits arch-rivals India and Pakistan against each other alongside UAE and Oman. India are set to open their campaign against UAE on September 10, with the blockbuster clash against Pakistan scheduled for September 14. This highly anticipated encounter has already generated immense buzz, with some political figures expressing reservations due to recent geopolitical tensions, although the BCCI has confirmed India’s participation, citing prior commitments.
Also READ: Asia Cup 2025: Asaduddin Owaisi lashes out at BCCI over India-Pakistan clash amid rising tensions
Sanju Samson reveals his ambitions for Asia Cup 2025 amidst India-Pakistan tensions
Amidst the backdrop of a transitioning Indian team, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has publicly voiced his keen desire to be included in the Asia Cup 2025 squad. This bold statement showcased his ambition to reclaim a consistent spot in the national T20 setup, especially considering he was not part of the main squad for the previous 50-over Asia Cup in 2023. Samson’s recent T20 performances have been a subject of keen observation; while he displayed explosive hitting with three centuries in T20 internationals in 2024, his form against England in early 2025 was less consistent, reflecting the competitive landscape for Indian wicketkeeper-batter.
Samson’s eagerness extends to the familiarity and support he receives in the UAE. He reminisced about his past experiences in the region, stating, “I have one more month until the tournament starts. When we reach Dubai from Kerala, it’s a feeling that our countrymen will be as excited and happy as they were last year during the U-19 World Cup. For the Asia Cup, and playing here at the IPL stadium, I want our people to experience that happiness again. So, I’m waiting for this day,”
Sanju Samson latest interview about Asia Cup 2025 pic.twitter.com/TDzQeT52pZ
— Indian Funda (@Jofra153kmph_22) July 30, 2025
The tournament will not only test the mettle of emerging talents but also assess the strategic vision of the team management in forging new combinations, with players like Samson eager to cement their place and contribute to India’s pursuit of a record-extending ninth Asia Cup title.
Also READ: Asia Cup 2025: Sourav Ganguly shares his diplomatic take over India-Pakistan game row
