Asia Cup 2025 Playoff Contenders
The 2025 Asia Cup is underway in the UAE, bringing together eight teams hungry for continental glory. As the tournament enters the group stages, the mix of established giants and rising challengers promises action-packed cricket and unpredictable results.
Early Standings (September 2025)
| Group | Team | Context |
|---|---|---|
| A | India | Champions in transition, new leadership |
| A | Pakistan | Fresh squad, youthful ambition |
| A | UAE | Host side, Indian-origin stars |
| A | Oman | Confident qualifiers |
| B | Afghanistan | Giant-killers, elite spin |
| B | Sri Lanka | Experienced, in transition |
| B | Bangladesh | Young squad, new hopes |
| B | Hong Kong | Underdogs, upset potential |
Contender Snapshots
India: Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India’s squad blends IPL firepower and new talent. Eyes are on young batters like Shubman Gill and Rinku Singh alongside Jasprit Bumrah’s pace bursts. They’re favorites, but must gel quickly with their new core.
Pakistan: With several senior stars omitted, captain Salman Agha leads a rebuilt lineup centered around Shaheen Afridi’s pace and Fakhar Zaman’s aggression. Pakistan’s pedigree is undeniable, but their revamped squad will be tested in crunch moments.
Afghanistan: Buoyed by a commanding opening win and a world-class spin unit, Afghanistan is a serious contender. Captain Rashid Khan, together with Noor Ahmad and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, gives them the tools to trouble the region’s best.
Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka now leads the six-time champions into a transitional era. Their core remains strong, but newer batters and spinners will need to step up against India and Pakistan.
Bangladesh: Entering a fresh era after the retirement of multiple veterans, Bangladesh are led by Litton Das and banking on youth and energy to redefine their identity.
UAE, Oman, Hong Kong: UAE, boosted by Premier Cup success and Indian-origin stars, look to shock bigger names at home. Oman and Hong Kong, proven regional survivors, aim to punch above their weight.
Storylines to Watch
- Group A battles: India vs. Pakistan headlines, but UAE and Oman could spring surprises.
- Afghanistan’s momentum: Their spin attack is already dictating early results.
- Super Four showdown: Only two teams per group advance—making every game high stakes.
- Young stars rising: Players like Rashid Khan, Shaheen Afridi, and Shubman Gill may define this edition.
Outlook
As of early September 2025, Afghanistan hold the edge in Group B after a dominant win, but both groups remain wide open. India and Afghanistan look best balanced, while Pakistan’s new approach and Sri Lanka’s pedigree make them dangerous. Expect twists, big upsets, and a captivating battle for the Super Four—and ultimately, the continental crown.