The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) announced on August 30 that the start times for 18 of the 19 matches in the upcoming Asia Cup have been adjusted, shifting the schedule back by 30 minutes due to extreme heat conditions in the UAE. The revised kickoff for most matches will now be at 6:30 PM local time (8 PM IST). This year’s tournament, which will be held in the T20 format, is set to take place from September 9 to 28 at venues in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
According to the ECB, “The start time for 18 out of the 19 DP World Asia Cup 2025 matches has been updated,” with only a single day game scheduled for September 15, when the UAE will face Oman at 4:00 PM local time in Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Cricket Stadium. Originally, these matches were slated to start at 6 PM local time, as announced by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) earlier this month.
The tournament’s spotlight will shine on the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in Group A on September 14, taking place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India’s first match will be against the UAE on September 10, followed by their last group stage match against Oman in Abu Dhabi on September 19. The teams are divided into two groups: India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman in Group A, while Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong make up Group B.
While the timing changes may seem minor, they are viewed as crucial for ensuring player safety and optimal playing conditions during what is expected to be a highly competitive tournament. Given the soaring temperatures in September, organizers believe this postponed start will provide some relief from the heat and cater more effectively to prime-time television audiences across the subcontinent.
With eight teams competing for regional dominance, the Asia Cup not only promises exciting cricket but also serves as an essential preparatory platform for teams ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup scheduled for next year. Each match in this revised schedule holds significant importance, drawing attention from fans and broadcasting networks alike.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/08/31/uae-heat-forces-30-minute-delay-in-asia-cup-matches/
Category: SPORTS
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Publish Date: 2025-08-31 07:02:00
