The highly-awaited Asia Cup 2025 will experience a minor adjustment in the match timings. Owing to the blistering heat in the UAE, the timings for the commencement of 18 of the 19 matches in the tournament have been advanced by half an hour.
The new starting time will be 6:30 pm local time (8:00 pm IST) with the exception of the match between UAE and Oman on September 15, which will be the only day game of the tournament, to be played at 4:00 pm local time.
Revised Match Timings for Asia Cup 2025
As per the announcement made by the Emirates Cricket Board, the new start time of 6:30 pm local time (Gulf Standard Time) will now apply to all Asia Cup 2025 matches, except for one game. The amendments to the start times will apply to 18 out of 19 games currently scheduled. The ACC released the original schedule with a starting time of 6:00 pm (local time).
Given the harsh temperatures in the UAE, it was decided to adjust the start times to prevent playing at the peak heat of the day, which would provide improved conditions for playing for the teams as well as a more comfortable viewing experience for spectators.
Important Fixtures and Pools in the Asia Cup 2025
Asia Cup 2025 will be played in the T20 format from September 9 to 28 with games to be conducted in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
India-Pakistan Match: One of the most anticipated bouts of the competition, the India-Pakistan encounter on September 14, will be conducted at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
India’s Group Stage Matches: India will start their campaign against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai. Their last group match will be against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.
UAE vs Oman: The sole day match of the tournament, which is on September 15, will be held at 4:00 pm local time at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.
The two groups for the tournament are:
Group A: India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman
Group B: Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, and Afghanistan
Effect of New Timings on Fans and Teams
The new timings are likely to make the tournament player-friendly and fan-friendly, with evening matches expected to be more comfortable. Since the UAE still has hot temperatures during the day, this shift will avoid fatigue and make the overall play experience better throughout the tournament.
Asia Cup 2025 Changes for Best Experience
The new timings for Asia Cup 2025 are a testament to the organizers’ dedication to allowing both the players and spectators to enjoy the best experience possible throughout the tournament.
With all matches taking place in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the new 6:30 pm local time kick-offs should provide a more comfortable temperature for fast-paced action. For cricket fans, it should be a fun ride, with up-and-ups like India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh duking it out for the Asia Cup title.
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