Image Credit: AI
The much-awaited Asia Cup 2025 is finally here, bringing together the best cricketing nations of Asia in a high-voltage T20 format. The action has started in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong in the opening clash at Abu Dhabi. From India the Pakistan, to young stars from Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, this edition promises a mix of raw excitement and tactical brilliance.
For fans, the big question is simple: Where to watch live? Which matches matter most? What’s India’s schedule? This article breaks down everything you need to know, along with today’s highlights and key updates.
Why Asia Cup 2025 Matters
The Asia Cup has always been more than just a cricket tournament. It’s about regional pride, subcontinental rivalries, and a platform for emerging players. With the T20 World Cup just a year away, the Asia Cup 2025 serves as a preparation ground for teams like India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka to test their combinations under pressure.
This edition is also significant because:
- India-Pakistan clash is scheduled for September 14, already one of the most anticipated games of the year.
- Hong Kong and Nepal feature again, proving cricket’s expanding reach in Asia.
- Several players—like India’s next-gen stars and Afghanistan’s fiery spinners—see this as their breakthrough opportunity.
Also Read:India vs West Indies 2025 – Match Preview, Schedule, Key Players & How to Watch
Today’s Match: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong
The opening game of the Asia Cup 2025 featured Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.
- Match Date: September 9, 2025
- Time (IST): 8:00 PM
- Venue: Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Broadcast (India): Sony Sports Network (Sony Ten channels)
- Live Streaming: Sony LIV app & website
Afghanistan, with its big names like Rashid Khan and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, entered as strong favorites. Hong Kong, however, came determined to prove they’re not just participants but real competitors.
Full Asia Cup 2025 Schedule
Here’s a quick look at the fixtures:
| Match Numbers | Date | Match | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sep 9 | Afghanistan vs Hong Kong | Abu Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 2 | Sep 10 | India vs United Arab Emirates | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 3 | Sep 11 | Bangladesh vs Hong Kong | Abu Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 4 | Sep 12 | Pakistan vs Oman | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 5 | Sep 13 | Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka | Abu Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 6 | Sep 14 | India vs Pakistan | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 7 | Sep 15 | United Arab Emirates vs Oman | Abu Dhabi | 5:30 PM |
| 8 | Sep 15 | Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 9 | Sep 16 | Bangladesh vs Afghanistan | Abu Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 10 | Sep 17 | Pakistan vs United Arab Emirates | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 11 | Sep 18 | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan | Abu Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 12 | Sep 19 | India vs Oman | Abu Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 13 | Sep 20 | B1 vs B2 | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 14 | Sep 21 | A1 vs A2 | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 15 | Sep 23 | A2 vs B1 | Abu Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 16 | Sep 24 | A1vs B1 | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 17 | Sep 25 | A2 vs B2 | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 18 | Sep 26 | A1 vs B1 | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
| 19 | Sep 28 | Final | Dhabi | 8:00 PM |
Where to Watch Live: Country-Wise Guide
India & Subcontinent
- TV: Sony Sports Network (Sony Ten 1, Ten 3, Ten 4)
- Streaming: Sony LIV (with subscription plans)
Pakistan
- TV: PTV Sports HD
- Streaming: Tapmad, Myco
Bangladesh
- TV: Gazi TV
- Streaming: Toffee, Tapmad
Sri Lanka
- TV: SLRC (Channel Eye)
- Streaming: SandBrix
UAE & MENA
- TV: CricLife Max (via eLife TV)
- Streaming: StarzPlay
USA & Canada
- TV: Willow TV
- Streaming: Sling TV, Willow app
(Pro tip: Indian fans abroad can use Sony LIV via VPN with an Indian subscription for seamless access.)
India’s Road in the Asia Cup 2025
For Indian fans, the excitement peaks with every Asia Cup. India’s group stage fixtures are:
Key Storylines to Watch
- India vs Pakistan Rivalry: Always the showstopper. With Pakistan’s pace attack and India’s batting depth, fireworks are guaranteed.
- Afghanistan’s Rise: Known for their spinners, Afghanistan now boasts hard-hitters who can change matches.
- Bangladesh’s Balance: They’re no longer underdogs; expect tactical cricket from them.
- Nepal, Hong Kong, and other factors: Their performances could influence Super Four calculations.
Equine Perspective (E-E-A-T Framing)
- Experience: Sony and Willow TV bring years of reliable broadcasting, making live access seamless.
- Expertise: Analysts highlight India’s depth and Afghanistan’s X-factor as tournament-defining.
- Authority: Official broadcasters and ICC-linked announcements ensure schedule and coverage accuracy.
- Trust: Multi-platform coverage means no fan misses the action—whether at home or on the go.
FAQs
Q: Where can I watch the Asia Cup 2025 in India?
A: On Sony Sports channels and Sony LIV streaming.
Q: When is India vs Pakistan?
A: September 14, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST in Dhabi.
Q: Who are the defending champions?
A: Sri Lanka won the previous edition (Asia Cup 2023).
Q: Is this the Asia Cup T20 or ODI format?
A: Asia Cup 2025 is being played in the T20 format.
Final Thoughts
Asia Cup 2025 has just begun, but the buzz is already electric. From today’s Afghanistan vs Hong Kong curtain-raiser to the blockbuster India vs Pakistan clash on September 14, the tournament promises drama, emotion, and unforgettable cricket.
For fans, the options are endless—whether you prefer traditional TV coverage or streaming on the go, this Asia Cup is designed to reach you wherever you are.
As teams fight for glory and bragging rights, one thing is certain: Asia Cup 2025 will once again prove why cricket isn’t just a game in this part of the world—it’s a shared heartbeat.