There’s disappointing news for Rishabh Pant and Indian cricket fans, as reports suggest the star southpaw is set to miss both the Asia Cup, beginning September 9, and the subsequent home Test series against the West Indies.
Pant’s injury setback occurred during the fourth Test when he retired hurt on 37 after taking a blow to his right foot while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes. He was taken for scans soon after. Returning to the crease following Shardul Thakur’s dismissal, with India at 314/6 on an overcast day, Pant went on to complete his half-century before falling to Jofra Archer.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup will be jointly hosted by Dubai and Abu Dhabi from September 9 to 28. Dubai will stage 11 matches, including the final, while Abu Dhabi will host eight games.
India’s Group A schedule includes a clash with the UAE on September 10 and a high-voltage encounter against Pakistan on September 14, both at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. They will then face Oman on September 19 at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Group A features India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, while Group B consists of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. For the first time, the Asia Cup will feature eight teams in the T20I format, serving as preparation for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup.
The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Super Fours, with the leading pair from that stage battling in the final for the 17th Asia Cup title. The tournament will open with Afghanistan facing Hong Kong China.