Asia Cup 2025/26

The Asia Cup stands as the premier senior men's international cricket tournament in Asia, organized by the Asian Cricket Council. It occupies the top of the Asian cricket pyramid for national teams, distinguishing itself from developmental or associate-only competitions. The event features the five Asian ICC Full Members alongside one qualifier from the Associate ranks, typically the winner of the ACC Men's Premier Cup. This structure ensures it remains the only senior continental championship in the region, unlike the ACC Trophy or Emerging Teams Cup which serve different tiers.

While the inaugural tournament was held in 1984, the profile focuses on its current standing rather than its origins. The format has evolved significantly from a simple round-robin to a structure involving group stages, a Super Four round-robin, and a final. Crucially, the tournament alternates between ODI and T20I formats, having switched to T20I in 2016 and continuing to rotate between the two disciplines. This flexibility allows it to adapt to global cricket trends while maintaining its regional identity.

India holds the record for most titles, though the exact number depends on the inclusion of recent wins. Pakistan has won two titles, while Sri Lanka has claimed six. The current holder is India, who defeated Sri Lanka in the 2023 final. A notable feature of the tournament is the hybrid hosting model, which emerged in 2023 due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. This arrangement allows matches to be played across different venues to accommodate diplomatic sensitivities.

The competition does not incorporate relegation, but the ACC Premier Cup serves as the essential qualification pathway for Associate members. The 2025 season is sponsored by DP World, continuing a tradition that began with Rothmans in 1984. The inclusion of teams such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Oman highlights its growing inclusivity beyond the traditional powerhouse nations. The tournament's status as the highest level of play in Asia ensures it remains a critical fixture in the international cricket calendar.