Afghanistan thrash Hong Kong by 94 runs in Asia Cup opener

Afghanistan launched their T20 Asia Cup 2025 campaign in style with a commanding 94-run victory over Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Batting first in sweltering conditions, the Afghans posted 188-6, anchored by opener Sediqullah Atal’s unbeaten 73. He found a powerful partner in Azmatullah Omarzai, who smashed a whirlwind 53 off just 21 balls, reaching his maiden T20I fifty in only 20 deliveries — the fastest by an Afghan batter. Their 82-run stand for the fifth wicket proved decisive after Hong Kong had made early breakthroughs. Veteran Mohammad Nabi also chipped in with 33, building momentum despite the humidity and testing conditions. Hong Kong’s bowlers faltered in the field, dropping five catches, before their batting collapsed to 94-9, with Afghanistan’s attack striking early to reduce them to 22-4 inside five overs. The clinical win comes as a strong response for Afghanistan after their defeat to Pakistan in the recent Sharjah tri-series final, while Group B rivals Sri Lanka and Bangladesh await tougher contests. Meanwhile, the Asia Cup excitement builds as India open their campaign against hosts UAE on Wednesday, with the blockbuster clash against Pakistan scheduled for September 14.