Asia Cup 2025: Afghanistan Take on Hong Kong in Tournament Opener

The wait is finally over as the Asia Cup 2025 gets underway today in Abu Dhabi. In the opening clash, Group B teams Afghanistan and Hong Kong will go head-to-head at the Zayed Cricket Stadium.

Abu Dhabi: The Asia Cup 2025 kicks off today, September 9, with the first match between Afghanistan and Hong Kong. The match will be help at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. It will begin at 8:00 PM IST. Both teams are part of Group B and will be eager to start their campaign with a win.

Head-to-head Records?

In the t20 format Afghanistan and Hong Kong have faced each other five times. Where Afghanistan has won three matches, while Hong Kong has won two matches. Afghanistan appears to have the stronger team, but Hong Kong will be looking to cause an upset and improve their record against Rashid Khan's side.

Hong Kong’s Game Plan

• Hong Kong is Led by Yasim Murtaza, will rely on a few key players to put up a fight. Openers Babar Hayat and Anshuman Rath are expected to give the team a solid start.
• The middle order will feature Kinchit Shah, Martin Coetzee, and Zishan Ali all capable of making valuable contributions.
• In the bowling department, the spin attack will be led by Yasim Murtaza, Najeeb Khan, and Ehsan Khan, while Mohammad Waheed will be their main fast bowler.

Afghanistan’s Strengths

• Afghanistan, captained by Rashid Khan, will look to make a strong statement in their opening game. The opening pair of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Sediqullah Atar will aim to provide a solid foundation.
• The middle order looks strong with Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, and Darwish Rasooli all in good form.
• Afghanistan’s biggest strength remains its spin attack, featuring Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and veteran Mohammad Nabi. Fazalhaq Farooqi will handle the pace duties.

Probable Playing XIs

Hong Kong: Babar Hayat, Anshuman Rath (wk), Martin Coetzee, Zishan Ali, Kinchit Shah, Anas Khan, Nizaat Khan, Yasim Murtaza (c), Mohammad Waheed, Ehsan Khan

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediqullah Atar, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Darwish Rasooli, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Where to Watch

The Afghanistan vs Hong Kong match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network. Fans can also stream it live on the SonyLIV app.