ACC officials have just informed us that the timings of 18 out of 19 matches for the Asia Cup 2025 have been changed. It will now be 6.30 pm local time (Gulf Standard Time).
The Asia Cricket Council has revised the match timings for the DP World Asia Cup 2025, taking into account the high temperatures in the UAE during September. Under the updated schedule, all fixtures will start half an hour later than originally planned. As a result, 18 of the 19 matches will now begin at 6:30 PM Gulf Standard Time (GST), which corresponds to 8:00 PM Indian Standard Time (IST)—a convenient prime-time slot for viewers in India.
Interestingly, only the UAE and Oman clash on Monday, 15 September, at the Zayed Cricket Stadium will break the pattern, commencing at 4:00 PM GST (5:30 PM IST). This encounter will stand out as the only day fixture in the competition, with all other matches scheduled for the evening slot.
Why the Asia Cup 2025 Schedule Was Changed?
Since daytime temperatures during September in the UAE are expected to hover above 40°C, concerns were raised about playing in such conditions. The cricket boards proposed a shift in match timings, and with broadcaster approval, the schedule was revised. As a result, every day-night fixture will now start at 8:00 PM IST.
This revised scheduling decision has been taken in coordination with broadcasters and venue partners, with the aim of providing as much relief as possible from Dubai’s intense heat. It also aims to provide financial benefits, as primetime viewers in major cricketing nations of South Asia will get a fan-friendly experience.
Revised Match Schedule of Asia Cup 2025
Tuesday, 9 September – Afghanistan vs Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi – 8:00 PM IST
Wednesday, 10 September – India vs United Arab Emirates, Dubai – 8:00 PM IST
Thursday, 11 September – Bangladesh vs Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi – 8:00 PM IST
Friday, 12 September – Pakistan vs Oman, Dubai – 8:00 PM IST
Saturday, 13 September – Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi – 8:00 PM IST
Sunday, 14 September – India vs Pakistan, Dubai – 8:00 PM IST
Monday, 15 September – UAE vs Oman, Abu Dhabi – 5:30 PM IST
Monday, 15 September – Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong, Dubai – 8:00 PM IST
Tuesday, 16 September – Bangladesh vs Afghanistan, Abu Dhabi – 8:00 PM IST
Wednesday, 17 September – Pakistan vs UAE, Dubai – 8:00 PM IST
Thursday, 18 September – Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Abu Dhabi – 8:00 PM IST