Dubai to Host Asia Cup Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

The Asia Cup, featuring eight teams, will be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi from September 9 to 28, 2023. Tensions are brewing as India and Pakistan could face off up to three times, with political unrest following a recent terror attack heightening concerns.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announced on Saturday that Dubai and Abu Dhabi will host the Asia Cup from September 9 to 28, confirming venues for all fixtures in a statement. The tournament will adhere to the T20I format, featuring eight teams: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong.

Group A consists of India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, while Group B includes Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. Although India is the official host, a neutral venue agreement ensures some matches are played outside India or Pakistan. Dubai will hold 11 matches, with Abu Dhabi hosting eight, starting with the opener between Afghanistan and Hong Kong on September 9 in Abu Dhabi.

The tournament is marred by controversy as fans and officials criticize India facing Pakistan amidst heightened tensions following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite calls to avoid the match-up, India and Pakistan could potentially face off three times, raising concerns over the political and social impact.

(With inputs from agencies.)