Colombo: Afghanistan started their Asia Cup 2025 campaign with a commanding 94-run victory over Hong Kong in the opening Group B match.

Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan won the toss and chose to bat first. Thanks to brilliant half-centuries by Sediqullah and Azmatullah, Afghanistan set a strong total of 189 runs. Sediqullah smashed 73 off 52 balls, while Azmatullah played an aggressive knock of 53 from just 21 deliveries. Mohammad Nabi also added 33 runs from 26 balls before Afghanistan finished at 188 for the loss of six wickets.

For Hong Kong, Ayush Shukla and Kinchit Shah picked up two wickets each, while Ateeq Iqbal and Ehsan Khan claimed one wicket apiece.

Chasing 189, Hong Kong’s batting line-up collapsed for just 94 runs. Babar Hayat scored 39 from 43 balls and skipper Yasim Murtaza added 16 from 26, but no other batsman managed to reach double figures.

Afghanistan’s bowlers dominated the game, with Gulbadin Naib and Fazalhaq Farooqi taking two wickets each. Rashid Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Noor Ahmad chipped in with one wicket each to seal the win.

With this victory, Afghanistan made a strong statement in their Asia Cup campaign.

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