ACC Men's Emerging Cup (Sierra Leone) 2023/24

The ACC Men's Emerging Cup, currently known as the ACC Men's Asia Cup Rising Stars, is a regional cricket tournament organized by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Established in 2013, it functions as a developmental pathway for emerging players, typically designated as 'A' teams or Under-23 squads from ACC member nations. The competition sits outside the standard domestic pyramid, operating as a standalone continental event rather than a domestic league.

Qualification is often based on performance in other ACC events. For example, associate teams may earn their place through the ACC Premier Cup. The field regularly includes national 'A' teams like Sri Lanka A and Pakistan Shaheens, alongside emerging squads from associate members such as the United Arab Emirates A and Oman A. There is no promotion or relegation system within this structure.

The format has evolved over time. Historically, editions in 2013, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2023 were played in the List A (50-over) format. The 2024 edition marked a shift to Twenty20 (T20) cricket. The tournament typically involves eight teams divided into two groups of four, playing a round-robin group stage, followed by semi-finals and a final. The frequency has been irregular, with editions held in 2013, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

Pakistan A (Shaheens) is the most successful team, having won the tournament three times (2019, 2023, and 2025). Sri Lanka A has won twice (2017, 2018), and India A has won once (2013). Afghanistan A won the 2024 T20 edition. The 2025 final, held in Qatar, saw Pakistan A defeat Bangladesh A in a Super Over. The primary distinction between this competition and other ACC tournaments is the player eligibility. Unlike the ACC Men's T20 Asian Cup or the ACC Premier Cup, which feature senior national teams or domestic club franchises respectively, the Emerging Cup is restricted to young, developing players. This makes it a crucial stepping stone for players aiming for senior international selection.