Afghanistan announced their arrival in style at the Asia Cup 2025, hammering Hong Kong by a massive 94 runs in the tournament’s opening Group B clash at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
Afghanistan were in trouble early when Hong Kong struck with two quick wickets. But opener Sediqullah Atal held his ground with a composed 73 not out, keeping one end solid. He first stitched a 51-run stand with veteran Mohammad Nabi (33), who counter-attacked to steady the innings.
Once Nabi fell to off-spinner Kinchit Shah, fireworks began. Azmatullah Omarzai smashed a whirlwind 53 off just 21 balls, hammering five sixes and two fours. His knock not only marked his first T20I fifty but also the fastest ever by an Afghan batter. Together, Atal and Omarzai piled on an 82-run fifth-wicket partnership, lifting Afghanistan to a commanding 188/6 in 20 overs.
In reply, Hong Kong never looked settled. Afghanistan’s bowlers attacked from both ends, and with two run-outs in the powerplay, Hong Kong slipped to 22/4 inside five overs.
The chase never recovered, as Rashid Khan’s men kept the pressure on. Despite some intent, sloppy fielding haunted Hong Kong- they dropped five catches, allowing Afghanistan to escape tougher moments. Eventually, Hong Kong crawled to94/9, handing Afghanistan a huge win.
With this thumping win, Afghanistan sit on top in Group B and look strong contenders for a Super Four spot. Their next clash will be against Bangladesh on September 16 in Abu Dhabi.
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 and Azmatullah Omarzai (53) shine in Group B opener.){kind=link}