Asia Cup 2025 Opening match: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong: here is the info

In the opening match of the Asia Cup 2025, Afghanistan defeated Hong Kong by 94 runs at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on September 9, 2025. Afghanistan, led by Rashid Khan, elected to bat first and posted 188/6 in 20 overs, powered by Sediqullah Atal’s unbeaten 73 off 52 balls (6 fours, 3 sixes) and Azmatullah Omarzai’s record-breaking 53 off 21 balls (5 sixes), the fastest T20I fifty by an Afghan. Mohammad Nabi contributed 33 off 26. Hong Kong’s spinners performed well, but their fielders dropped five catches, including Atal thrice, costing them dearly.

Chasing 189, Hong Kong struggled, finishing at 94/9. Babar Hayat scored 39 off 43 (3 sixes), but no other batter reached double digits. Afghanistan’s bowlers dominated, with Fazalhaq Farooqi (2/12) and Gulbadin Naib (2/8) leading the attack, supported by Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Omarzai. Hong Kong lost 4 wickets in the powerplay (23/4), and their chase never recovered.Son Injured in Road Accident; Leg Surgery Reason: MLA Vinay Kulkarni Granted Two Days Interim Bail

Key Details: Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Toss: Afghanistan, opted to bat

Player of the Match: Azmatullah Omarzai

Broadcast: Sony Sports Network (TV), SonyLIV (streaming) in India

Umpires: Asif Yaqoob, Virender Sharma, Faisal Afridi

Group B Context: Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh; top two advance to Super Four.Monte Carlo Mens Solid Lace Up Genuine Leather Casual Shoes (201803FW)