The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has announced the tentative dates for the Asia Cup 2025. The matches are expected to take place between September 12 and September 28, 2025. Although India has been announced as the host country, due to the current political situation and Pak-India tensions, many matches are likely to be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Possible host countries and their status
| Country | Role | Description |
| India | Official Host | India is the primary host, but India-Pakistan matches may be shifted to UAE |
| UAE | Neutral Venue | Likely venue for India-Pakistan matches |
| Sri Lanka | Alternate Host | Included in early consultations but UAE is being prioritized |
Expected Strategy for India-Pakistan Matches
- In 2024, the BCCI and PCB reached an agreement that the two teams would only face each other at neutral venues.
- It is likely that India-Pakistan matches will not be held in India.
- A precedent was set during the Champions Trophy 2025, where Indian matches were held in Dubai while Pakistan was the host nation.
Speculations About Participation and Boycott
In May 2025, there were rumors that India might boycott the Asia Cup but these were denied by the BCCI. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia stated:
“We are only awaiting government approval. A boycott is not under consideration. If permission is granted, we will participate.”
Promotional Poster and Social Media Reaction
A promotional poster surfaced on social media featuring only India and Sri Lanka sparking criticism over the absence of Pakistan. This move was perceived as a reflection of political tensions however:
- Neither the BCCI nor the PCB raised objections when both teams were placed in the same group in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.
- This is being viewed as a potential sign of improving cricket relations between the two countries.
Khawaja Nafay Shows Significant Improvement in Performance
Emerging Pakistani wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay spoke about his performance, skill development, and future goals during the recent skills development camp.
Benefits Gained from Training Camp
- 800 ball practice sessions daily
- Specialized power-hitting training under the supervision of Abdul Razzaq
- Focused practice against spin bowlers
- Improvement in mental toughness and physical strength
Meeting Legendary Batter
During the camp, Nafay had the chance to meet Vivian Richards.
“Vivian Richards told me that if you believe in yourself, nothing is difficult. He used to play the toughest shots with complete confidence.”
Performance in PSL
| Team | Matches | Runs | Strike Rate | Half-Centuries |
| Quetta Gladiators | 12 | 234 | 130.00 | 2 |
Future Goals
- Aiming for further improvement in wicketkeeping
- Fully preparing to play in all formats
- Determined to become a versatile, all-round cricketer
Nafay concluded by stating that he will continue with the same dedication and training routine after the camp with the goal of emerging as a strong and complete player for the national team.
