Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai gave a breathtaking batting performance in the Asia Cup 2025 Group B match against Hong Kong at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on Tuesday. The 24-year-old hit a whirlwind half-century off only 21 balls, breaking India’s Suryakumar Yadav’s record of the quickest fifty in Asia Cup T20Is. His knocks helped Afghanistan secure a crushing 94-run win.
Record-Breaking Knock by Azmatullah Omarzai in Asia Cup 2025
Omarzai’s breathtaking knock was laced with two fours and five sixes, coming at a crucial stage when Afghanistan needed momentum. He stitched together a game-changing fifth-wicket stand of 82 runs off 35 balls with opener Sediqullah Atal, who remained unbeaten on 73. The assault ensured Afghanistan posted a formidable 188/6 in 20 overs.
In breaking Suryakumar’s record of hitting a 22-ball fifty against Hong Kong in the 2022 Asia Cup in Dubai, Omarzai achieved his fifty in 21 balls. His aggressive stroke-making saw him hit ramp shots and three back-to-back sixes and a four off Ayush Sukla’s last-but-one over, putting the Afghan fans into seventh heaven.
Hong Kong’s Batting Struggles in Asia Cup 2025 Opening Match
Pursuing 189, Hong Kong never appeared to be in command and struggled to 94/9 in their taken overs. Skipper Yasim Murtaza (16) and opening bat Babar Hayat (39 off 43) were the only two players to reach double digits. Even though Afghanistan’s wayward fielding dropped three catches the Asian minnows couldn’t make the most of it.
Afghanistan’s bowlers set the tone early on. Fazalhaq Farooqi (2/16) opened the gates, while Omarzai displayed his all-round prowess with a run-out off a direct hit. Star spinner Rashid Khan and young gun Noor Ahmad tightened the screws in the middle overs, giving away only 44 runs in 10 overs. Fast bowler Gulbadin Naib (2/8) contributed importantly with vital strikes.
While the scoreboard painted a picture of dominance, Afghanistan’s fielding had many low points. Three dropped catches gave Hong Kong fleeting opportunities to remain in the game. Yet a diving effort at deep from Karim Janat, along with two quick run-outs, compensated for the lapses.
Redemption for Afghanistan After Pakistan Defeat in Tri-Series Final
The victory was a much-needed boost for Afghanistan, who had been bowled out for just 66 runs in the tri-series final against Pakistan a few days earlier. Omarzai’s return to form provided reassurance to the Afghan camp, especially with tougher fixtures against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka awaiting in Group B. The top two sides from the group will qualify for the Super Four stage.
This victory has put Afghanistan in a good position to move further in the competition. Hong Kong, on the other hand, will have to bounce back soon after suffering the big loss. The coming matches against full members will be tested for their strength and character.
Azmatullah Omarzai’s explosive fifty not only handed Afghanistan a commanding win but also etched his name into the record books by eclipsing Suryakumar Yadav’s Asia Cup T20I landmark. For Afghanistan, the all-rounder’s heroics are a timely reminder of their depth and potential as they aim for a deep run in the Asia Cup 2025.
