The highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 clash between India and Pakistan is set to take place in Dubai on September 14, 2025. This Group A match is particularly significant, taking place amidst calls for a boycott.
The match is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM IST, with the toss taking place at 7:30 PM IST. Cricket fans can watch the live telecast on Sony Sports Network channels, including Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 1 HD, Sony Sports Ten 5, and Sony Sports Ten 5 HD. Live streaming will also be available on the SonyLIV app and website.
Both India and Pakistan enter this match with a victory in their respective opening games. India secured a dominant nine-wicket win against the United Arab Emirates, while Pakistan convincingly defeated Oman by 93 runs.
Despite the excitement surrounding the match, it is occurring against a backdrop of controversy and unease. Calls for boycotts have emerged following the Pahalgam terror attack in April and the subsequent Operation Sindoor. This has sparked debate across political and sporting circles, with many questioning the logic of the match given the strained diplomatic ties between the two nations. Some reports indicate that the Indian camp may engage in "symbolic protests" during the match to express their sentiments.
Adding to the tension, reports suggest that some players in the Indian dressing room are unnerved by the boycott discussions. Gautam Gambhir is said to have addressed the team to help manage their nerves and handle the situation. India's assistant coach, Ryan Ten Doeschate, acknowledged the nerves but expressed confidence in the team's experience to stay focused.
The pitch in Dubai is expected to favor spin bowlers, potentially leading India to field three spinners. Weather conditions are expected to be clear but humid.
Suryakumar Yadav is captaining the Indian side, with Shubman Gill as his vice-captain. The squad includes players such as Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah. Pakistan will be led by Salman Ali Agha and includes players like Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.
This match marks the first time these two teams have faced each other since February 2025. Their last T20I encounter was at the 2024 T20 World Cup, where India secured a narrow six-run victory. In their previous Asia Cup encounter in 2023, India defeated Pakistan by a significant 228-run margin in the 50-over format.
In T20Is, India holds a 9-3 head-to-head record against Pakistan. However, Pakistan's last T20 victory against India was in the 2022 Asia Cup in Dubai.
Despite the off-field controversies, the India-Pakistan match remains a major draw for viewers and advertisers. The match is expected to generate significant viewership, although some analysts suggest that the boycott calls and overall context might impact television ratings.
