Afghanistan began their T20 Asia Cup campaign in dominant fashion, defeating Hong Kong by 94 runs in the tournament’s opening match.
In Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, Rashid Khan’s side posted a formidable total of 188/6 and then bundled out Hong Kong for just 94/9, sealing a commanding win at the Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Afghanistan’s innings was anchored by Sediqullah Atal, who remained unbeaten till the end. After early dismissals of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, Atal found some support from Mohammad Nabi, putting up a crucial 51-run stand. However, Hong Kong’s tight spin bowling kept runs in check, and Nabi eventually fell for 33 off 26 balls.
The real fireworks came late in the innings when Azmatullah Omarzai unleashed a brutal counterattack. Partnering Atal, Omarzai smashed 53 off just 21 balls with five sixes and two fours, helping Afghanistan score a stunning 69 runs in the last four overs. His fifty came in just 20 balls — the fastest by an Afghan batter in T20 internationals.
Atal stayed unbeaten on 73 off 52 balls, hitting three sixes and six fours, guiding Afghanistan to a strong total of 188/6.
In response, Hong Kong’s chase never took off. Fazalhaq Farooqi struck in the very first over, and Afghanistan’s bowlers kept chipping away at regular intervals. Only Babar Hayat (39 off 43) and skipper Yasim Murtaza (16 off 26) managed to reach double digits, as Hong Kong collapsed to 94/9 in 20 overs.
For Afghanistan, Gulbadin Naib starred with the ball, taking 2 wickets for just 8 runs, while Farooqi claimed 2/16. All Afghan spinners bowled economically, never allowing Hong Kong any breathing room.
Match Summary
Afghanistan: 188/6 (20 overs)
- Sediqullah Atal 73* (52)
- Azmatullah Omarzai 53 (21)
- Mohammad Nabi 33 (26)
- Ayush 2/54, Kinchit 2/24
Hong Kong: 94/9 (20 overs)
- Babar Hayat 39 (43)
- Yasim Murtaza 16 (26)
- Farooqi 2/16, Naib 2/8
Result: Afghanistan won by 94 runs
Player of the Match: Azmatullah Omarzai
