Afghanistan outclassed Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi, posting 188 for 6 before bowling their opponents out for just 94, sealing a massive 94-run victory in scorching conditions.
Omarzaiβs Blazing Knock in the Heat
On a sweltering 41Β°C afternoon, Azmatullah Omarzai lit up the ground with Afghanistanβs fastest T20I fifty. His aggressive stroke play and fearless approach turned the contest one-sided.
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Omarzai also produced a sharp run-out, adding to Hong Kongβs misery after their sloppy fielding display that included three dropped chances.
Atalβs Composed Anchor Role
Opening batter Sediqullah Atal looked assured at the crease. Despite being offered three reprieves β dropped on 4, 46, and again after reaching his fifty β he capitalized fully to remain unbeaten on 73 from 52 deliveries.
His calm shot selection against spin and ability to rotate strike ensured Afghanistan had a solid platform before Omarzaiβs late blitz.
Hong Kong Falter Under Pressure
Hong Kong had brief control in the middle overs, where spinners Yasim Murtaza and Kinchit Shah combined to restrict runs and grab wickets. But once Omarzai arrived, the bowlers had no answers. His 18-ball assault yielded 60 runs, dismantling the death-over plans.
Babar Hayatβs fighting 39 was the only highlight for Hong Kong, but a series of poor decisions and avoidable run-outs crushed their chances.
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A Clear Gulf in Quality
Afghanistanβs bowlers wrapped things up clinically. Gulbadin Naib and Fazalhaq Farooqi took two wickets each, while Rashid Khan showcased his brilliance with a sharp run-out.
Hong Kong managed only 94 for 9, with just two batters reaching double figures. The defeat exposed the gulf in class between the Associate side and Full Member Afghanistan.
