From 2013 to 2025: The Ultimate Asia Cup Rising Stars Winners List and Records

Since its inception in 2013, the Asia Cup Rising Stars (also known as the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup) has served as a vital breeding ground for Asia’s future cricket stars. Originally contested by U-23 squads, this tournament gradually evolved into a platform for ‘A’ teams — offering emerging players a bridge to senior international cricket. Over the years Asia Cup Rising Stars Winners List, powerhouse squads like India U23, Sri Lanka U23, and Pakistan A / Shaheens have claimed titles, with Afghanistan A breaking through in 2024.

By 2025, Pakistan Shaheens (Pakistan A) once again rose to the top, defeating Bangladesh A in a thrilling finale. This ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup Winners List charts a remarkable journey of talent development across the continent under the Asian Cricket Council’s banner, highlighting the rising legends of tomorrow.

Asia Cup Rising Stars Winners List (2013–2025)

Here’s a breakdown of who won and who came second in each edition from 2013 to 2025, based on historical records:

Key Highlights & Records of ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup

First Edition (2013) – India’s U23 Breakthrough

• The inaugural tournament in 2013 was held in Singapore. India U23 dominated the final, chasing down 160 with ease and defeating Pakistan U23 by 9 wickets.
• That win laid the foundation for future stars, featuring youngsters who would later rise through domestic and international ranks.

Sri Lanka’s Success in U23 Era (2017, 2018)

• Sri Lanka U23 won back-to-back titles: in 2017 defeating Pakistan U23, and in 2018 defeating India U23.
• These victories highlighted Sri Lanka’s strong youth development pipeline and their ability to perform under pressure in finals.

Pakistan’s Growing Dominance

• In 2019, Pakistan U23 captured their first Emerging Teams Asia Cup title by beating Bangladesh U23 in the final.
• After the format shifted to “A” teams, Pakistan A won again in 2023, defeating India A with a convincing margin — 128 runs in Colombo.
• In 2025, Pakistan (often represented as “Pakistan Shaheens” / A-team) won again, beating Bangladesh A in a dramatic finale.

Emerging Force — Afghanistan A

• The 2024 edition saw Afghanistan A lift their first Rising Stars / Emerging Teams title, defeating Sri Lanka A.
• This win was symbolic of Afghanistan’s rapid rise in the Asian cricketing structure, as they produce strong young talent beyond their top national team.

Evolution of Format & Significance

• Format Transition: Up to 2019, the tournament was primarily U23 format. From 2023, many teams began fielding their A-teams (emerging senior talent), signaling a shift in how countries view development.
• Developmental Role: This tournament is highly regarded as a stepping stone for young players. Many “Rising Stars” from this event have gone on to represent their national sides or play in major franchise leagues.
• Visibility & Prestige: Winning this cup is no longer just about junior success. With A-teams, countries use this event to test future international squad members.

Notable Records & Milestones

Most Successful Teams

• Pakistan A / Shaheens stand out — with multiple titles including 2023 and 2025.
• Sri Lanka U23 also have a strong record, especially during the U23 era in 2017 and 2018.

First-Time Champions

• Afghanistan A winning in 2024 was a milestone for their cricket board, highlighting their growing depth.

Runner-Up Spotlight

• India A / U23 has often been near the top, finishing as runner-up more than once.
• Pakistan U23 and Bangladesh U23 have also made finals, showing consistent competitiveness.

Broader Impact on Asian Cricket

• Talent Pipeline: The tournament gives Asia’s cricket-playing nations a structured pathway to blood newcomers in competitive settings.
• FUTURE STARS: Many players from the Rising Stars Cup go on to feature in senior national squads, franchise leagues, and other international tournaments.
• Competitive Balance: While traditional cricket powers (India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan) dominate early winners, the rise of Afghanistan A signals expanding competition.
• Cricket Growth: By combining U23 with A-team formats, the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup ensures more countries invest in their second-tier talent — strengthening cricket in Asia’s emerging markets.

Conclusion

The Asia Cup Rising Stars Winners List from 2013 to 2025 offers a fascinating snapshot of Asian cricket’s developmental progress. What started as a purely U23 contest has evolved into a serious platform for A-team talent — what many now rightly call the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup. The changing champions — from India U23 to Pakistan A, and then Afghanistan A — reflect the shifting balance of cricketing power in Asia, as well as the rise of new, homegrown stars.

For fans and cricket administrators alike, this winners list isn’t just about trophies. It’s a record of emerging talent, national ambition, and Asia’s future in the sport. As we move beyond 2025, the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup will likely continue playing a key role in shaping the next generation of international cricketers.

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