The cricketing world turns its attention to Dubai this week as the 10th edition of the Women’s Asia Cup prepares to get underway. Running from August 28 to September 13, 2026, the tournament features eight nations competing in the T20I format, with all 15 matches scheduled to take place at the same venue.
The participating teams have been split into two groups for the opening stage. Group A consists of India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Group B features the defending champions Sri Lanka, alongside Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. The top two sides from each group will progress to the semi-finals, which are slated for September 10 and 11, ahead of the tournament final on September 13.
Tournament Context and Key Fixtures
For the associate nations, this tournament represents a significant milestone. Indonesia is set to make its debut in the competition, while Hong Kong returns to the fold for the first time since 2012. These four teams—Indonesia, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the UAE—earned their qualification through the 2026 Women's Premier Cup, where they each topped their respective groups before winning their quarter-final matches.
The group stage will see one match played daily until September 8. Among the most anticipated encounters is the clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan on September 5. Historically, India has held the upper hand in this fixture, winning 14 of their 17 previous T20I meetings. Another critical match in Group B sees Sri Lanka face Bangladesh on September 6, with the Sri Lankans holding a strong record of 13 wins in 16 T20I encounters against their opponents.
Broadcast Details and Team Aspirations
India enters the tournament looking to reclaim the trophy, having won three of the five previous T20I editions of the Asia Cup. Their campaign begins on August 30 against Thailand. Defending champions Sri Lanka will be aiming to replicate their 2024 success, while other Full Member nations, Pakistan and Bangladesh, will be looking to make a deep run in the tournament.
All matches are scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM IST. For viewers in India, the tournament will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network, with digital streaming available via the SonyLIV app and website. With a mix of established powerhouses and emerging associate teams, the 2026 edition promises a competitive window into the current state of women's T20 cricket in Asia.
