NEW DELHI: On 9th September, cricket fans around the world will be eagerly waiting as the mega cricketing event – Asia Cup 2025 – kicks off in the UAE.

Defending champions India will be eyeing yet another crown in the 17th edition of the tournament. But before the action begins, let's take a look at how many times India have ruled the continent.

Unsurprisingly, India are the most successful team in Asia Cup history, having lifted the trophy eight times – seven in ODIs and once in T20Is. Sri Lanka follow closely as the second-most successful side with six titles to their name.

Here's a record that clearly explains why India stand as the most dominant force in the tournament's history.

ODI Editions

1984 – UAE

  • The very first Asia Cup was played in Sharjah.
  • India defeated Sri Lanka and Pakistan to finish at the top of the points table.
  • India became the first-ever Asia Cup champion.

1988 – Bangladesh

  • This time the tournament was expanded to 4 teams.
  • India dominated the league stage and reached the final.
  • In the final, India defeated Sri Lanka by 6 wickets and lifted the trophy for the second time.

1990/91 – India

  • Tournament was hosted by India
  • The final was held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
  • India defeated Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in the final and lifted the trophy for the third time.

1995 – UAE

  • The tournament featured India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
  • India reached the final to face Sri Lanka again.
  • In the final, India won by 8 wickets.

2010 – Sri Lanka

  • India returned to winning ways after a hiatus of 15 years.
  • The final was played against Sri Lanka.
  • India won by 81 runs and lifted the trophy

2018 – UAE

  • In the final, Bangladesh scored 222 runs.
  • India won the last-ball thriller, winning the contest by 3 wickets.

2023 – Pakistan & Sri Lanka (ODI)

  • India topped the Super Four stage and entered the final against Sri Lanka.
  • In the final at Colombo, Indian bowlers dominated and Sri Lankan were bundled out for 50.
  • India chased down the target in 6.1 overs without losing a wicket.
  • Hence, India won the Asia Cup title.

T20I Edition

2016 – Bangladesh ( First T20 Format)

  • For the first time, the Asia Cup was played in the T20 format, ahead of the T20 World Cup.
  • India were dominant throughout the tournament.
  • In the final India defeated Bangladesh by 8 wickets.

With such an impressive record, expectations are high that the team led by Suryakumar Yadav will once again rise to the occasion and look to defend its crown.

India will begin their campaign on 10th September, facing UAE at the Dubai International Stadium.