The schedule of matches for the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, which Zimbabwe and Namibia will co-host from January 15 to February 6, 2026, has been released by the International Cricket Council (ICC). There will be 41 games between 16 teams, and the final is set for February 6 at the Harare Sports Club.

Zimbabwe will play Scotland, Tanzania will make their historic tournament debut against the West Indies, and India will play the USA on the first day. Five locations will host the games: the Namibia Cricket Ground, HP Oval Namibia, Harare Sports Club, Takashinga Sports Club, and Queens Sports Club in Zimbabwe.

Four groups of four teams each make up the tournament framework, which progresses to the Super Six stage, semi-finals, and final in Harare.

On the second day in Windhoek, Australia, the reigning champions, begin their campaign against Ireland. On January 17 in Bulawayo, one of the early highlights will be a match between longtime rivals India and Bangladesh.

Ten teams joined hosts Zimbabwe after automatically qualifying based on their performance in the 2024 edition. The U19 pathway’s expanding global reach is demonstrated by the other five teams, who earned their seats through regional qualifying events.

The teams will play warm-up games from January 9 to January 14 after arriving on January 8.

Bangladesh, the USA, New Zealand, and India, the most successful team with five titles, are in Group A.

Zimbabwe, Pakistan, England, and Scotland are co-hosts in Group B.

Australia, the reigning champions, Ireland, Japan, and Sri Lanka are all in Group C.

Tanzania, the West Indies, Afghanistan, and South Africa make up Group D.

“The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup has long been the cradle of greatness, a tournament that reveals not just the next generation of cricketers, but the next generation of icons,” said ICC Chairman Jay Shah, expressing his excitement for the competition, which will feature up-and-coming cricket stars. From Sanath Jayasuriya and Brian Lara to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, and Shubman Gill, the competition has always influenced the direction of our sport.

“We are eager to give young cricket players a top-notch platform that reflects the demands and standards of senior international cricket as we look ahead to the 2026 edition in Zimbabwe and Namibia. Dreams are sparked, rivalries are formed, and the world of cricket starts to take on a new shape at this tournament.

“We are extremely happy to welcome Tanzania as they join a truly global field of teams and make their debut. He continued, “I send my best wishes to all participating squads as they set out on this incredible journey, representing their countries with pride and promise.”

Tournament Schedule:

January 15: USA v India, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 15: Zimbabwe v Scotland, Takashinga Sports Club, Harare

January 15: Tanzania v West Indies, HP Oval, Windhoek

January 16: Pakistan v England, Takashinga Sports Club, Harare

January 16: Australia v Ireland, Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

January 16: Afghanistan v South Africa, HP Oval, Windhoek

January 17: India v Bangladesh, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 17: Japan v Sri Lanka, Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

January 18: New Zealand v USA, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 18: England v Zimbabwe, Takashinga Sports Club, Harare

January 18: West Indies v Afghanistan, HP Oval, Windhoek

January 19: Pakistan v Scotland, Takashinga Sports Club, Harare

January 19: Sri Lanka v Ireland, Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

January 19: South Africa v Tanzania, HP Oval, Windhoek

January 20: Bangladesh v New Zealand, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 20: Australia v Japan, Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

January 21: England v Scotland, Takashinga Sports Club, Harare

January 21: Afghanistan v Tanzania, HP Oval, Windhoek

January 22: Zimbabwe v Pakistan, Takashinga Sports Club, Harare

January 22: Ireland v Japan, Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

January 22: West Indies v South Africa, HP Oval, Windhoek

January 23: Bangladesh v USA, Takashinga Sports Club, Harare

January 23: Sri Lanka v Australia, Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

January 24: India v New Zealand, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 24: A4 v D4, HP Oval, Windhoek

January 25: Super Six A1 v D3, Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

January 25: Super Six D2 v A3, HP Oval, Windhoek

January 26: B4 v C4, Harare Sports Club, Harare

January 26: Super Six C1 v B2, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 26: Super Six D1 v A2, Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek

January 27: Super Six C2 v B3, Harare Sports Club, Harare

January 27: Super Six C3 v B1, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 28: Super Six, A1 v D2, Harare Sports Club, Harare

January 29: Super Six D3 v A2, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 30: Super Six D1 v A3, Harare Sports Club, Harare

January 30: Super Six B3 v C1, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

January 31: Super Six B2 v C3, Harare Sports Club, Harare

February 01: Super Six B1 v C2, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

February 03: First semifinal, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

February 04: Second semifinal, Harare Sports Club, Harare

February 06: Final, Harare Sports Club, Harare

Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the words of wisdom he imparted with them after their 2017 World Cup final loss to England, stating that his motivation inspired them work even harder and finally won their maiden trophy.

On Wednesday night, Modi hosted the nation’s Women’s World Cup-winning team at his official home at Lok Kalyan Marg and engaged with them. India won their first-ever ICC trophy on Sunday evening as they overcame South Africa in the final of the global Cup at Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium to be proclaimed global champions.

“Sir, I can still clearly recall our 2017 meeting. We hadn’t brought the trophy home at the time, but it is a great honor for us to present it to you today after all these years of hard work. It means so much to us that you have doubled our happiness today. Our hope today is that in the future, we continue to meet you again and again and keep capturing images with you and the team. We had just lost the final when we first met in 2017. However, you greatly inspired us at that time, sir; you taught us how to play and give it our all whenever the next chance presented itself ” Harmanpreet Kaur told the Prime Minister.

Listening to the skipper’s words, PM Modi said, “You all have really done something incredible. In India, cricket has evolved from a sport to a way of life. When cricket goes well, the whole of India feels good. And if things go even slightly wrong, the whole country gets shaken. Even when you lost three matches in a row, there was mocking, and everyone started attacking you.”

Smriti Mandhana, who was also part of the Indian group that saw Modi following the 2017 World Cup loss to England, stated that the squad came empty-handed when they last met him, but eventually managed to meet up to his expectations and brought the trophy home.

Mandhana further said that while they worked hard across all World Cup competitions, only to experience heartbreaks in the end, winning the trophy at home was ‘destiny,’ saying, “When we met you in 2017, we were unable to bring the trophy. I recall that we asked you about your expectations, and your response was really helpful.

“In the next 6-7 years, we tried a lot, but there were numerous heartbreaks at the World Cups. It was in our destiny that India’s first Women’s World Cup would be won at home. You have always been our inspiration. These days, we see women at the top of all fields, including ISRO. Whenever we see this, it inspires and motivates us to do well and do better and motivate other girls.

“Richa, you win every game you play, don’t you?” PM Modi remarked, highlighting Richa’s accomplishments during the exchange. Everywhere, Richa has an opportunity.

Richa Ghosh smiled shyly and said, “I don’t know, sir,” in response. Yes, we did win trophies while we were seniors, under-19s, and in the WPL.We used to hit sixes when we batted. I believe Smriti (Mandhana), Harry Di (Harmanpreet), and others have faith in us. We were trusted by the entire crew. They trust us in situations where you need more runs but have fewer balls, which is why I felt confident that “you can do it.”

Spinner Radha Yadav noted, “We lost three games,” when discussing the team’s camaraderie during the competitive round of the competition. The finest thing, though, was that we were defeated together. We were conversing and supporting one another. It was therefore truly pure. God gave us this trophy for that reason.

PM Modi questioned the crew how they had prepared for the big event after responding, “No, no, you’ve earned it with your hard work.”

All-rounder Sneh Rana told the PM about India’s historic victory, saying, “Sir, it’s a lot of hard work.” We also spent a lot of time discussing how to confront a batter with Avishkar, our bowling coach. As a result, we attempt to duplicate every tactic developed with the head coach, vice captain, and captain. Fortunately, it was successful.

“We can’t do it in many of the matchups. Nevertheless, we inspire ourselves to perform better the next time,” she continued.

When she and the rest of the World Cup-winning team visited Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his home, Indian cricketer Harleen Deol inquired about his beauty regimen. Everyone on the team, including the Prime Minister, started laughing during that wonderful time.

“Harman di always tells us that everyone should keep smiling,” Kranti Gaud said to the PM, introducing the team’s motto for the competition. We therefore made it a habit to make sure that everyone continued to laugh if anyone was even a little anxious. And when we saw each other smiling, it made us feel that we were all joyful together.”

Team India turns its focus to the eagerly anticipated T20I portion of their journey down under after a fierce ODI series. With a thrilling five-match T20I series against Australia, Suryakumar Yadav’s team continues to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 after winning the Asia Cup 2025 handily last month.

In the action-packed matches, which will take place in Canberra, Melbourne, Hobart, Gold Coast, and Brisbane, Australia, the defending world champions hope to defeat the Mitchell Marsh-led Aussies, who they defeated in a pivotal Super 8 match in the Caribbean last summer and eliminated from contention for the coveted trophy.

The team’s management would be concerned about Hardik Pandya’s absence, though, as even backup all-rounder Nitish Reddy is dealing with similar injury issues. In the crucial absence of captain Pat Cummins and now-retired Mitchell Starc, Australia’s bowling resources will be strengthened by the arrival of star quick Josh Hazlewood for the opening two games.

The return of pace leader Jasprit Bumrah for the series will strengthen India’s team. According to former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, the veteran speedster will have an excellent opportunity to declare his return to the limited-overs format following the Asia Cup under Australian conditions.

Abhishek Sharma, the top-ranked T20I batsman, Shubman Gill, and Tilak Varma, the top-ranked batsman, are among India’s top three. In addition, India’s skipper, Suryakumar Yadav, is ranked in the top 10 for T20I batting.

He believes that in this five-match T20I series, touring captain Suryakumar Yadav’s batting style will be aided by the pace and bounce of the Australian conditions, allowing him to reclaim his form.

For many of our young players, this T20I series in Australia will be a big test because it will be their first time playing T20 International cricket in such conditions against a squad of this caliber.

Even while the setting is different from what players will experience in the World Cup, it offers a new challenge and a great chance for new heroes to rise to the occasion.

With runs under their belts, it’s an opportunity for a number of players to step up, boost their confidence, and develop momentum,” he said.

Dates, Timings and Venues

1st T20I, Oct. 29 – Manuka Oval, Canberra
2nd T20I, Oct. 31 – Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
3rd T20I, Nov. 2 – Bellerive Oval, Hobart
4th T20I, Nov. 6 – Bell Pippen Oval, Gold Coast
5th T20I, Nov. 8 – The Gabba, Brisbane

The India-Australia T20I series will start with all five of its games at 1:45 p.m. IST. In light of this, the toss for each of the five fixtures is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. IST.

India Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (VC), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar.

Australia Squad: Mitchell Marsh (C), Sean Abbott (games 1-3), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman (games 3-5), Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis (games 4-5), Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood (games 1-2), Glenn Maxwell (games 3-5), Travis Head, Josh Inglis (WK), Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe (WK), Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.

Researchers from Canada have discovered that examining the small blood vessels in the eyes can assist determine a person’s biological aging rate and heart disease risk.

Retinal scans may one day provide a noninvasive window into the body’s overall vascular health and biological ageing state, according to a study published in the journal Science Advances. This would open up new avenues for early identification and intervention.

“We have discovered molecular pathways that help explain how aging affects the vascular system by connecting retinal scans, genetics, and blood biomarkers,” said Marie Pigeyre, an associate professor at the Department of Medicine at McMaster University in Canada.

“The eye offers a special, non-invasive perspective on the circulatory system of the body. Pigeyre continued, “Changes in the retinal blood vessels frequently reflect changes in the body’s tiny vessels.

The researchers analyzed blood samples, genetic information, and retinal scans from more than 74,000 volunteers to carry out the study.

It was shown that those with simpler, fewer branched blood capillaries had a higher risk of cardiovascular illnesses and displayed biological aging symptoms including increased inflammation and a shorter lifetime.

Many tests are currently needed to evaluate age-related illnesses such dementia, heart disease, and stroke. Retinal scans alone may one day be a rapid, easily accessible method of evaluating cardiovascular risk and aging. But additional study is required.

The group also looked at genetic information and blood biomarkers to find possible biological reasons for alterations in the blood vessels in the eye. This enabled them to pinpoint two proteins—MMP12 and IgG-Fc receptor IIb—that may be responsible for aging and disease.

Both proteins are associated with vascular aging and inflammation. Future medications may target these proteins, according to Pigeyre.

“Our findings point to potential drug targets for slowing vascular ageing, reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases, and ultimately improving lifespan,” she stated.

According to a study, social isolation and loneliness can increase the chance of mortality from cancer and all causes among people who already have the disease.

A group of Canadian researchers lead by those from the University of Toronto discovered that loneliness is rather widespread among cancer patients after pooling data from 13 studies with over 15 lakh participants.

After controlling for small sample sizes, a pooled data analysis revealed that loneliness was linked to an 11% increased chance of dying from cancer, according to nine studies that examined the possible impact of loneliness on cancer death for 2,142,338 patients.

The researchers’ article, which was published online in the open-access journal BMJ Oncology, stated that “these findings collectively suggest that loneliness and social isolation may influence cancer outcomes beyond traditional biological and treatment-related factors.”

After investigating the causes, the researchers discovered that loneliness and social isolation raise the risk of death for cancer patients through a network of interrelated behavioral, psychological, and biological processes.

“Biologically, the stress response triggered by loneliness may lead to immune dysregulation and heightened inflammatory activity, ultimately contributing to disease progression,” the investigators stated.

However, the distinct burden of cancer survival frequently consists of isolation that is directly related to the illness and the experience of treatment. This includes the stigma surrounding obvious treatment side effects, the incapacity of loved ones to completely comprehend cancer-related anxiety, and anxieties related to survivability, all of which have an impact on the psychosocial well-being of cancer patients.

Long-term medicalization of life can weaken pre-illness identity and community ties, and cancer treatment can also cause physical changes like fatigue and cognitive impairments that may further restrict social participation.

To enhance outcomes, the researchers added, it would be necessary to regularly integrate psychosocial assessments and focused therapies into cancer care if the results are validated in additional methodologically sound trials.

An worrying animal study revealed that SARS-CoV-2 infection in fathers prior to conception can produce alterations in sperm, affecting children’s brain development and behavior and raising the likelihood of anxiety later on. This is in contrast to the well-established long-term consequences of Covid-19 infection on the brain.

According to research that was published in the journal Nature Communications, COVID-19 may have a lasting impact on generations to come. Male mice exposed to particular environmental and lifestyle factors—such as a poor diet prior to mating—may alter the behavior and brain development of their progeny.

Lead researcher Professor Anthony Hannan of the University of Melbourne’s Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health in Australia explained, “This is because the father’s experiences can alter the information carried in sperm, including specific RNA molecules, which transmit instructions for offspring development.”

The goal of the current study was to see whether the Covid virus would affect sperm RNA and the progeny in a similar way.

Before mating with healthy female mice, the scientists allowed male mice to recuperate from SARS-CoV-2 infection for a few weeks.

Compared to children of fathers who were not sick, the children had more worried behaviors.

All children whose fathers have COVID-19 showed more signs of anxiousness. The hippocampal region of the female offspring’s brain, which is crucial for anxiety, depression, and other emotional behaviors, also showed notable alterations in certain gene activity.

“These kinds of changes in the hippocampus, as well as other brain regions, may contribute to the increased anxiety we observed in offspring, via epigenetic inheritance and altered brain development,” said Carolina Gubert, a researcher at the Institute.

Subsequent examination of the sperm RNA from the infected fathers revealed that Covid had changed a number of molecules, including some that regulate genes thought to be crucial for brain development.

“If our findings translate to humans, this could impact millions of children worldwide, and their families, with major implications for public health,” Hannan said, urging further study.

A recent research by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) found that the use of AI technology is expanding quickly in India across a range of user industries, changing company operations, regulatory responses, and competition dynamics.

Although the introduction of AI has brought about significant improvements in productivity, creativity, and customer satisfaction, the study pointed out that new problems are starting to arise that could affect competition either directly or indirectly and prevent AI from reaching its full potential.

It looked closely at each of these elements and reviewed how legal and regulatory frameworks in India and other countries have changed to keep up with the quick development of artificial intelligence.

In order to comprehend AI markets and ecosystems, identify new and possible competition issues, and examine current and developing regulatory frameworks governing AI systems, the Management Development Institute Society (MDIS) conducted a report titled “Market Study on Artificial Intelligence and Competition.”

To provide a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the various objectives, the study used both primary and secondary research methods, such as database analysis, semi-structured and structured interviews, stakeholder surveys, and literature reviews.

“The study has contributed to the collection of valuable information and insights regarding the structure of the AI ecosystem, market trends, AI application in user industries, possible competition issues in the AI industry and user industries, and other pertinent aspects,” the CCI stated.

The paper suggests several actions to safeguard consumer welfare, stop AI-driven anti-competitive behavior, and encourage the growth of a competitive AI ecosystem in India.

In order to achieve this, CCI will engage with international competition authorities and multilateral competition platforms, organize a conference on “AI and regulatory issues” in collaboration with pertinent stakeholders, hold targeted advocacy workshops on “AI and Competition Compliance,” concentrate on enhancing its technical capabilities and infrastructure, establish a think tank to share knowledge on issues pertaining to digital markets with a particular focus on AI, and take action to encourage inter-regulatory coordination.

Businesses are encouraged to implement transparency measures to lessen information asymmetry and to incorporate self-audit of AI systems for competition compliance in order to guarantee responsible autonomy while shielding markets from distortions. This will enable businesses to proactively identify and address possible competition concerns.

Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is a significant Hindu holiday commemorating the triumph of good over evil.

For devotees of Lord Ram and Maa Durga, this auspicious day, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, has profound cultural and spiritual importance.

President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to attend the Dussehra festivities in Delhi’s Madhav Das Park, Red Fort. The IP Extension Ramlila Committee is hosting Dussehra celebrations in the nation’s capital, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend.

Droupadi Murmu, the president of India, extended her greetings and wrote on a social platform, “On the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens,”.

In addition, PM Narendra Modi writes on social media platform X, “Vijaya Dashami celebrates the triumph of good and righteousness over evil and falsehood,” wishing everyone a happy Vijaya Dashami. May our roads always be paved with bravery, discernment, and dedication. Greetings on Vijaya Dashami to my fellow Indians.

In an effort to wish their followers a happy and prosperous Dussehra, Film superstars have gone to social media.

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan offered a thought-provoking statement on the occasion of Dussehra that combined the spirit of the celebration with traditional wisdom.

“May the victory of good over evil be ever blessed in our lives and in the lives of all humanity. May this Dussehra bring all the happiness and joy you deserve .. prosper, bring accolades , progress and the good for all… Kind of contrary to the above and the teachings of Chanakya .. but so be it .. Life itself is filled with contrary elements …. Such a delight to be in Life’s Company .. be well .. be in care .. and in love.” Big B wrote on his blog.

Bollywood actor Sunny Deol took to social media to wish everyone on the occasion of Dussehra. He shared a heartfelt message about embracing kindness, courage, and compassion. He took to his Instagram stories and shared his greeting, “Happy Dussehra, this Dussehra, lets burn away the negativity within us and light up with kindness, courage, and compassion. #HappyDussehra.”

Veteran actor Anupam Kher tweeted, “Heartfelt Dussehra wishes and congratulations to all of you! May Lord Ram’s blessings always be upon you! Jai Shri Ram! HappyDussehra.”

Taking to his X handle, Akshay  Kumar wrote in Hindi, “Heartfelt wishes to all of you on the occasion of Vijayadashami! Always keep walking on the path of truth and goodness.”

Extending his wishes, Randeep Hooda wrote, “On this auspicious day, let’s remember: evil may look powerful, but it never lasts. Goodness & Truth always finds its way back. Happy Dussehra.”

Telugu star Allu Arjun is celebrating Dussehra and took to the Stories section of his Instagram, and shared a creative wishing his followers.

He wrote, “Wishing everyone a Happy Dussehra filled with triumph, happiness, and prosperity #Happy Dussehra”.

The World Heart Federation (WHF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) decided on September 29 as the date for World Heart Day celebrations when the event was first held in 1999 and formally commemorated in 2000.

In order to battle the world’s top cause of death, the day was created to increase awareness of cardiovascular diseases and encourage heart-healthy lifestyles. In order to establish a recurring yearly campaign, the date was moved from the last Sunday of September to September 29 starting in 2011.

With the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat,” the World Heart Federation and World Health Organization commemorate the 25th World Heart Day today, highlighting the fact that 80% of heart disease and stroke cases can be avoided by adopting healthier lifestyle choices including exercising, eating a balanced diet, and giving up smoking.

While the Philippines reports 143,486 CVD deaths in 2023, authorities in India, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, encourage routine checkups in the face of a 30% increase in heart attacks among those under 40.

The goal of global programs is to increase access to cardiac care for 500 million additional individuals by 2030 through screenings, workshops, and awareness campaigns.

Early deaths from CVD are causing loved ones all across the world to miss out on time they should still spend together. For this reason, on September 29, we shall proclaim to the world: Don’t Miss a Beat.

In the WHO South-East Asia Region, eight individuals pass away from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) every minute. According to Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge, WHO South-East Asia, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major cause of death in the region, with half of these deaths occurring before the age of 70.

Hypertension, diabetes, alcohol and tobacco use, poor diets heavy in fat and salt, and sedentary lifestyles are major risk factors for CVDs.

She also pointed out shortcomings that impede progress, including insufficient financial and regulatory measures, lax policy enforcement, and inadequate oversight of the prohibitions on unhealthy commodities’ marketing, packaging, and advertising.

Amit Shah, the Home Minister, said on X, “On #WorldHeartDay may we all pledge to keep our hearts healthy with regular exercise and a balanced diet to gift ourselves and our loved ones happier lives” .

“On #WorldHeartDay, let’s unite to promote a heart-healthy community by embracing mindful lifestyle choices that protect our hearts today and for years to come,” the Ministry of Health stated on X.

Deputy Chief Minister- Karnataka, DK Shivakumar said on X, “#WorldHeartDay reminds us to care for this most vital part of our lives and make health a priority for ourselves and our society. Small steps like regular exercise, balanced food, and stress-free living can go a long way in keeping our hearts healthy. Let us value every heartbeat and protect it with conscious choices.”

On World Heart Day, there is a chance to spark global dialogue and involvement by utilizing compelling narratives to increase awareness of heart health issues. Use a collection of Don’t Miss a Beat resources to personalize World Heart Day.

In the 17th Asia Cup, India is playing its first Twenty20 International since defeating England 4-1 at home in January.

Additionally, it provides India with a vital platform for preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which will be hosted in India and Sri Lanka and in which they will compete as the reigning champions.In the UAE, the Asia Cup 2025 will take place from September 9 to September 28. Dubai and Abu Dhabi will host each of the 19 games.

The senior team of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who declared their T20I retirements following last year’s World Cup victory, will not be participating in the Men in Blue’s first big competition. Prior to the England tour, the prolific duo also ended their Test careers, limiting their international presence to the ODI format.

At the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India will play their first Group A match against the United Arab Emirates on September 10 and then Pakistan on September 14. On September 19, a match versus Oman will be place at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium.

The last time we saw Rohit and Kohli wearing the Indian shirt was during their March ICC Champions Trophy championship run.

Afghanistan will play Hong Kong China in Group B at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi in the continental opener.

The match officials’ crew for the competition will be led by seasoned referees Andy Pycroft and Richie Richardson. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) stated on Monday that the Super Four match officials list and tournament final match officials list will be revealed later.

Asif Yaqoob (Pakistan), Faisal Afridi (Pakistan), Gazi Sohel (Bangladesh), Izatullah Safi (Afghanistan), Masudur Rahman (Bangladesh), Raveendra Wimalasiri (Sri Lanka), Rohan Pandit (India), Ruchira Palliyaguruge (Sri Lanka), Virender Sharma (India), and Ahmad Pakteen (Afghanistan) are among the umpires scheduled to oversee the competition.

The Asian Cricket Council hosts a cricket competition every two years called the Men’s Asia Cup. The senior men’s national cricket teams of Asian members compete in the tournament, which determines the Awi of Asia continental champion.

India is the tournament’s most successful team with eight titles (seven ODI and one T20I). With six titles, Sri Lanka is the second-most successful team, while Pakistan has two. India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have each played in 15 Asia Cups, while Sri Lanka has played in 16 of them.

The two locations for the matches will be Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi and Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai. There are two groups of the eight participating countries:
Group A
India
Oman
Pakistan
UAE

Group B
Afghanistan
Hongkong
Bangladesh
SriLanka