The first encounter between the two teams is expected to take place on September 2nd, followed by the second match in the next round on September 10th. The matches are likely to be held in either Colombo or Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Prior to their clash with India, Pakistan is set to play their first group match against Nepal on either August 30th or 31st in Multan. The opening ceremony of the tournament will also be held in Multan on the same day. Lahore will serve as another venue for the Asia Cup matches in Pakistan.

Assuming the proposed schedule is approved, the Pakistan team will immediately depart for Sri Lanka after their match against Nepal. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan will play their group matches in Pakistan before traveling to Sri Lanka for the remaining matches.

The official announcement of the schedule is expected on Wednesday.

The tournament, scheduled from August 31st to September 17th, will follow a hybrid model devised by the former management committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), led by Najam Sethi, after India declined to tour Pakistan. Despite facing challenges, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) ultimately approved the hybrid model. The initial four matches will be held in Pakistan, followed by a transition to Sri Lanka for nine matches, including the final.

Zaka Ashraf, the chairman of the PCB management committee, initially expressed opposition to the hybrid model for the Asia Cup. However, he later affirmed that the board would honor its commitment to the ACC and proceed with the “hybrid model.” While Ashraf personally holds reservations about this model, he stated that PCB would respect the decision made by the previous management.

During his tenure as chairman, Ashraf also explored the possibility of hosting a greater number of Asia Cup matches in Pakistan, but it was not feasible. As announced by the Asian Cricket Council, Pakistan will host four Asia Cup matches.

Furthermore, Salman Naseer, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of PCB, has been appointed as the tournament director for the Asia Cup.