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UAE Heatwave Pushes Asia Cup 2025 Matches To 8 PM IST Start: Report

Akshita Patel

Asia Cup 2025 matches start timing to be pushed [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.com]Asia Cup 2025 matches start timing to be pushed [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.com]

In a big development ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is reportedly mulling a change to the match timings due to the extremely hot weather conditions in the United Arab Emirates. From 7:30 PM IST, the matches will now likely begin at 8:00 PM IST.

The UAE has been experiencing record-breaking summer temperatures, making it nearly impossible for cricketers to play in such challenging conditions. 

With several matches expected to be high-intensity contests, there are reportedly growing concerns about heat exhaustion, dehydration, and injury risks.

ACC Likely To Alter Asia Cup Match Timings

The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi and the Dubai International Cricket Stadium are set to host the Asia Cup 2025 from September 9 to 28. However, with extreme heatwaves unlikely to relent, a change in match timings is imminent.

According to Vaibhav Bhola of News24, the start time of the Asia Cup 2025 matches will be pushed by 30 minutes. Earlier, the games were scheduled at 6:00 PM local time and 7:30 PM IST. However, according to alleged new timings, matches will begin at 6:30 PM local time and 8:00 PM IST.

This new timing shift is also expected to improve playing conditions, with cooler evenings making it easier for both players and fans. While matches will now stretch later into the night, organisers reportedly believe it is a much safer option.

Asia Cup Host Country Changed At The Last Moment

The Asia Cup 2025 was supposed to be officially hosted by the BCCI in India. However, in a late ACC meeting, it was decided that the tournament will be played in the United Arab Emirates after India and Pakistan mutually agreed to stage matches only at neutral venues till 2027 due to ongoing cross-border tensions. 

The Asian Cricket Council confirmed the shift, with ACC chairman Mohsin Naqvi announcing the dates from September 9 to 28. While India remains the official host on paper, the UAE will provide world-class facilities and neutral ground for all participating teams.