The much-awaited Asia Cup 2025 is all set to kick off on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong in the tournament opener at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. The Group B fixture will set the tone for the competition as both teams aim to start their campaigns on a positive note.
-
Match: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong, Match 1, Asia Cup 2025
-
Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
-
Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
-
Time: 8:00 PM (IST) | 6:30 PM (Local Time) | 7:30 PM (PKT)
-
Tournament: Asia Cup 2025 (Group B)
-
Live Telecast: Sony Sports Network
-
Live Streaming: SonyLIV, Yupp TV
Afghanistan – Strong Contenders with Momentum
Afghanistan enter the Asia Cup after a spirited performance in the recently concluded UAE Tri-Series, where they finished runners-up to Pakistan. Despite the loss in the final, the Afghan team showcased moments of brilliance, both with the bat and ball.
Under the captaincy of Rashid Khan, the squad boasts a strong mix of youth and experience. Rahmanullah Gurbaz at the top provides explosive starts, while Ibrahim Zadran offers solidity in the middle order. Mohammad Nabi, the veteran all-rounder, remains a pivotal figure for the side, both as a calming presence in the dressing room and as a reliable performer on the field.
The bowling attack, spearheaded by Rashid himself, alongside Fazalhaq Farooqi and Noor Ahmad, makes Afghanistan a dangerous side in subcontinent-like conditions. With the spin duo of Rashid and Noor, backed by Nabi’s experience, Afghanistan will look to dominate proceedings against Hong Kong.
Hong Kong – Hungry for a Breakthrough
Hong Kong may not carry the same reputation as Afghanistan, but they are no strangers to causing upsets on the big stage. Their most recent outing came in the Asia Pacific Cricket Championship Trophy 2025, where they finished as runners-up to Malaysia.
Led by Yasim Murtaza, Hong Kong will depend on experienced players like Anshy Rath, Kinchit Shah, and Nizakat Khan to stabilize their batting lineup. In the bowling department, the likes of Aizaz Khan and Ehsan Khan will be tasked with containing Afghanistan’s big hitters.
For Hong Kong, this match presents a golden opportunity to prove their credentials at the continental level and push for an upset in Group B.
Head-to-Head Record
Afghanistan and Hong Kong have met five times in T20 internationals so far. Afghanistan hold a slight edge with three wins, while Hong Kong have managed to clinch two victories. Their first encounter took place on March 18, 2014, while the most recent fixture came on March 10, 2016. Despite the gap, the past record shows Hong Kong cannot be underestimated.
Probable Playing XIs
Afghanistan (AFG):
Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Karim Janat, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Hong Kong (HK):
Yasim Murtaza (c), Anshy Rath, Martin Coetzee, Kinchit Shah, Shahid Wasif, Zeeshan Ali (wk), Aizaz Khan, Nizakat Khan, Ateeq Iqbal, Ali Hassan, Ehsan Khan
Pitch Report – Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed pitch is generally favorable for batters, especially in the early stages of the game when stroke-making is easier. However, bowlers—particularly spinners—come into play as the match progresses. Slower deliveries and variations are expected to be effective, making adaptability crucial for batters. A first-innings score in the range of 160-170 could be competitive.
Key Players to Watch
-
Sediqullah Atal (Afghanistan): The left-handed batter impressed in the UAE Tri-Series with crucial innings and will be one to watch in the Asia Cup opener.
-
Rashid Khan (Afghanistan): The captain and world-class leg-spinner will lead from the front, aiming to unsettle Hong Kong’s middle order with his variations.
-
Anshy Rath (Hong Kong): Known for his solid batting technique, Rath will be vital if Hong Kong are to post a competitive total.
-
Ehsan Khan (Hong Kong): The experienced spinner could play a key role in slowing Afghanistan’s scoring rate.
Probable Match Scenarios
-
If Afghanistan bat first, their explosive batting lineup could target a score of around 170+, putting Hong Kong under immense pressure in the chase.
-
If Hong Kong bat first, they will need to ensure a cautious yet positive approach to avoid collapse against Afghanistan’s spin-heavy attack. A score above 150 would give them a fighting chance.
Match Prediction
On paper, Afghanistan hold a clear advantage with their stronger squad, deeper batting, and lethal spin attack. However, Hong Kong have the ability to spring surprises if their top-order batters click and their bowlers exploit conditions well.
Prediction: Afghanistan are favorites to win the Asia Cup 2025 opener, but Hong Kong’s fighting spirit could make it an interesting contest.