Asia Cup alters start times to beat UAE heat

Asia Cup Adjusts Start Times to Beat UAE Heat

The Asia Cup has made a change to its schedule to accommodate the scorching heat in the UAE during September. Eighteen of the 19 matches, including the final, will now start at 6:30 PM local time (Gulf Standard Time), a half-hour change from the original schedule.

Reason for the Change

The cricket boards requested the change to avoid playing in the extreme heat, with temperatures expected to soar into the early 40s (degrees) during the day. The broadcasters agreed to the changes, which will affect all day-night games.

Exception to the Rule

The only match unaffected by this change is the day fixture between UAE and Oman on September 15 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Tournament Schedule

The eight-team tournament will kick off on September 9 in Abu Dhabi, with Afghanistan and Hong Kong facing off in the first match.