Web Desk: Pakistan’s emerging cricketing talent will have their moment by opening the series against Oman. The much awaited Pak vs Ind match will take place on Nov 16. The ACC placed Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka in Group A, while it assigned India, Oman, Pakistan and the UAE to Group B.
Pakistan-India Meeting Draws Attention
This event marks the first meeting between the men’s teams of India and Pakistan since the senior Asia Cup in September. The most recent Pak vs Ind interaction at women’s level came earlier this month at the ODI World Cup. During the men’s Asia Cup, relations appeared frosty, with no handshakes exchanged and India leaving Dubai without collecting the trophy. Tournament officials later removed the silverware after it became clear the champions would not return to the stage to receive it from ACC President Mohsin Naqvi, who also heads the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Expanded Line-Up and Schedule
The competition, previously known as the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup, returns in T20 format and will see the ‘A’ squads of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka compete. In contrast, Hong Kong, Oman and the UAE will participate with their senior sides. Two matches will be staged daily from November 14 to 19, followed by semi-finals on November 21 and the final on November 23.
History of the Competition
Launched in 2013, the tournament has evolved from an Under-23 format into a contest for ‘A’ teams. Pakistan and Sri Lanka have each claimed the title twice, while India and Afghanistan have one win each. Afghanistan are the defending champions, having defeated Sri Lanka by seven wickets in the 2024 final in Oman.
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