Cricket fans can anticipate a revised schedule for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, set to commence on September 9th and conclude with the final on September 28th. The BCCI has announced adjustments to the match timings, impacting the tournament.
The majority of matches, including the highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan encounter, will now begin at 6:30 PM local time, which is a half-hour delay compared to the initial schedule. Therefore, matches originally scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM IST will now commence at 8:00 PM IST.
The primary reason for this schedule shift is the extreme heat expected across the subcontinent during September. Temperatures can reach as high as 40°C, which raised concerns regarding player safety and match quality. The BCCI addressed this by requesting a change in match times from broadcasters, which was approved.
All of India’s matches, including group stages and potential knockout matches, will now follow the updated timing, starting at 8:00 PM IST. This offers a later, more fan-friendly viewing experience.
An exception to the changes is the UAE vs. Oman match, slated for September 15th at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, which will maintain its original schedule. The revised timings aim to avoid the hottest part of the day for players and to provide prime-time action for viewers during the Asia Cup 2025.