India and Pakistan, which are archrivals, will once more face off in the preliminary group stage. During multi-nation events, the two neighboring nations have frequently been pushed into the same group due to the limited number of meetings between them.

The 2023 Asia Cup will follow the same format as the previous two tournaments. There will be 13 matches in the 16th edition of the competition, including the Super 4 stage and the final.

The 50-over format will be used in the tournament, which will take place in September and coincide with the ODI World Cup in October and November. Since it was changed to a Twenty20 competition in 2016 and 2022, the tournament has a reputation for being flexible.

Presenting the @ACCMedia1 pathway structure & cricket calendars for 2023 & 2024! This signals our unparalleled efforts & passion to take this game to new heights. With cricketers across countries gearing up for spectacular performances, it promises to be a good time for cricket! pic.twitter.com/atzBO4XjIn

— Jay Shah (@JayShah) January 5, 2023

Jay Shah, president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), released the cricketing calendar for 2023–24 and the entry requirements for associate nations.

The winner of the Men’s Premier Cup is expected to be awarded the final spot, as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka have already secured their spots. Ten teams from two groups will compete in 20 matches in the Men’s Premier Cup.

Clarity is yet to be issued over Asia Cup 2023 host venue

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), which hosted the 2018 and 2022 editions of the continental competition, has yet to provide any clarification regarding the venue for the Asia Cup 2023. After an unlikely victory in September 2022, which included a victory over the Men in Green in the final, Sri Lanka is the defending champion.

❌ Asia Cup 2022 – Super 4s
❌ T20 World Cup 2022 – Semi-Finals

A disappointing year for Team India in the mega events 💔🇮🇳#T20WorldCup #India #TeamIndia #AsiaCup #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/SSFIi0sJkW

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) November 10, 2022

Pakistan was supposed to host the tournament, but India’s refusal to travel across the border has hurt them. In regards to the host nation, both nations are currently steadfast.

Pakistan is unwilling to give up its right to host the tournament on its own soil, despite Team India’s formal request for a neutral site.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has even considered withdrawing from the ODI World Cup, which will take place in India toward the end of 2023.