In the opening match of the Asia Cup 2025, a thrilling encounter took place between Afghanistan and Hong Kong, where Afghanistan's young star Azmatullah Omarzai created history with his explosive batting performance.
Sports News: Afghanistan's start in their Asia Cup 2025 opening match against Hong Kong was a bit slow. After Rahmanullah Gurbaz got out after scoring just 8 runs, Ibrahim Zadran, who came in next, added only 1 run. Following this, Mohammad Nabi, along with Sediqullah Atal, tried to stabilize the innings, but Nabi also returned to the pavilion after scoring 33 runs.
After 13 overs, the team's score was 95 for 4 wickets, and even the target of 160 runs seemed difficult. However, Afghanistan made a spectacular comeback, strengthening their innings and ultimately taking their team's score to 188 runs.
Afghanistan's shaky start, but Omarzai turned the tide
Afghanistan's start against Hong Kong was quite weak. Captain Gurbaz scored only 8 runs and was dismissed early. Ibrahim Zadran, who came in to bat after him, could only manage 1 run. After that, Sediqullah Atal and Mohammad Nabi attempted to salvage the team. Nabi scored 33 runs before returning to the pavilion.
After 13 overs, Afghanistan's score was 95 for 4 wickets, and reaching 160 seemed challenging for the team. But Azmatullah Omarzai and Sediqullah Atal gave a new direction to the innings.
Fastest fifty for Afghanistan in T20s
Azmatullah Omarzai completed his half-century in 20 balls and scored 53 runs off 21 deliveries. Previously, the record for the fastest fifty for Afghanistan was held by Mohammad Nabi and Gulbadin Naib, who had scored 50 runs in 21 balls each. Omarzai equaled this record and claimed it for himself. His innings included 2 fours and 5 sixes.
In the 19th over, Omarzai showcased his batting prowess by hitting three consecutive sixes against Hong Kong bowler Ayush Shukla. He then completed his half-century with a boundary. Sediqullah Atal also provided solid support to Omarzai. Together, they forged an impressive partnership of 82 runs for the fifth wicket in just 35 balls.
Atal scored an unbeaten half-century and propelled the team to 188 runs. Afghanistan scored 78 runs in the last 5 overs, setting a competitive score. Facing a target of 189 runs, Hong Kong could only manage to score 94 runs. Thus, Afghanistan won the match by 94 runs. This victory became Afghanistan's biggest win in the T20 Asia Cup to date.
