The Asia Cup 2025 is set to be one of the most competitive editions ever, featuring eight teams from across Asia. Scheduled in UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi) from September 9 to 28, this tournament will see top Asian sides battle for supremacy in the T20 format.
While much of the attention is on star players, the team coaches will play a huge role in shaping strategies, squad combinations, and match-winning decisions. This year’s coaching lineup is a fascinating mix of legends, proven mentors, and rising tacticians, which adds more excitement to the tournament.
Asia Cup 2025 – Head Coaches Table
| Team | Head Coach | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| India | Gautam Gambhir | First major ICC event as India coach, known for clear strategy & teamwork focus |
| Pakistan | Mike Hesson | Brings NZ-style data-driven approach, tasked with rebuilding white-ball dominance |
| Sri Lanka | Sanath Jayasuriya | Full-time coach till 2026 T20 WC, credited for ODI series win vs India & Test success |
| Bangladesh | Phil Simmons | Calm, technical coach aiming to improve performance under pressure |
| Afghanistan | Jonathan Trott | Extended till 2025, guided team to T20 WC semi-finals & historic wins vs top nations |
| UAE | Lalchand Rajput | 3-year term, experienced coach of India (2007 WC) & Zimbabwe, focuses on consistency |
| Oman | Duleep Mendis (Head) & Sulakshan Kulkarni (Deputy) | Veteran mentor with decades of experience, backed by an elite domestic coach |
| Hong Kong | Kaushal Silva | First coaching stint for ex-SL Test cricketer, focused on building team culture |
India – Gautam Gambhir’s Big Test
Gambhir takes charge of India after Rahul Dravid’s successful tenure. Known for his fearless approach, he emphasizes teamwork and clarity. Having won IPL as a mentor and played key knocks in World Cup finals, Gambhir is expected to bring a sharp edge to India’s planning.
Know more: India Probable Playing 11 for Asia Cup 2025
Pakistan – Mike Hesson Brings Stability
Hesson, who turned New Zealand into a world-class white-ball unit, is now responsible for making Pakistan consistent again. He is praised for nurturing young talent and using data-driven tactics. His first major assignment will be guiding Pakistan through the group stage against India, UAE, and Oman.
Know more: Pakistan Squad for Asia Cup 2025
Sri Lanka – Sanath Jayasuriya’s Impact
Under Jayasuriya, Sri Lanka have seen a resurgence – ODI series win vs India, Test victories over England & NZ. His coaching style is bold and player-friendly, creating freedom for batters and bowlers to express themselves.
Afghanistan – Trott’s Golden Era Continues
Jonathan Trott has been instrumental in Afghanistan’s rise. With 20 T20I wins at Sharjah and series wins vs South Africa & Bangladesh, Afghanistan are no longer underdogs. Trott believes in resilience and smart batting approach, pushing the team to believe they can beat anyone – including Australia, India, and Pakistan.
Bangladesh – Phil Simmons’ Calm Influence
Simmons’ technical coaching is expected to help Bangladesh hold their nerve in close games. This Asia Cup will be a litmus test for his ability to get the best out of experienced players like Shakib and Litton Das.
Like to know? Bangladesh Squad for Asia Cup 2025
UAE – Lalchand Rajput’s Mission to Upset Giants
Lalchand Rajput has a clear objective – make UAE a giant-killer. His experience coaching India (2007 WC winners) and Zimbabwe makes him perfect for building a strong Associate nation. UAE will rely on him to target a crucial win over Oman and challenge India/Pakistan.
Oman – Duleep Mendis & Kulkarni Duo
Oman are making their Asia Cup debut. With Mendis’ international experience and Kulkarni’s domestic success (credited with shaping Rohit Sharma & Rahane), they will focus on mental toughness.
Hong Kong – Kaushal Silva’s First Challenge
Silva, a former Test opener, is bringing a fresh, modern approach. His priority will be to instill discipline and guide Hong Kong to compete against top teams like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
Read more: – Hong Kong Asia Cup 2025 Squad
Key Group Stage Fixtures to Watch
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Sept 9 | Hong Kong vs Afghanistan (Opener) | Dubai |
| Sept 12 | Oman vs Pakistan | Dubai |
| Sept 14 | India vs Pakistan | Dubai (Blockbuster Clash) |
| Sept 15 | UAE vs Oman | Abu Dhabi |
| Sept 19 | Oman vs India | Dubai |
These matches will play a decisive role in determining who qualifies for the Super Fours.
The Asia Cup 2025 is more than just a battle of players — it’s a battle of strategies, mind games, and quick decision-making. With legends like Gambhir and Jayasuriya, and tacticians like Hesson and Trott, this edition promises to be tactically intense.
Fans can expect thrilling finishes, young stars rising to the occasion, and underdogs like Oman and UAE fighting to create history.
