Afghanistan bounce back with a big win over Hong Kong
Afghanistan hit back fast in the Asia Cup after a tough loss to Pakistan in the tri-series final. They faced Hong Kong less than 48 hours later. Pakistan had five days to rest, but Afghanistan had to shake off defeat quickly. Any slip could have ended their run early in a group with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
The beginning was tense. Just four balls in, Sediqullah Atal edged a Shukla delivery to slip. It echoed Afghanistan’s collapse, bowled out for 66 in their last game.
Luck shifted when captain Yasim Murtaza dropped a key catch, letting Atal seize control. He stayed unbeaten on 73 off 52 balls, driving Afghanistan to 188, with 34 runs above the ground’s usual first-innings mark.
Coach Jonathan Trott called the match pivotal, noting the team’s mixed play and some luck with dropped catches. He saw the win as positive amid a hectic schedule but stressed the team still fell short of its potential. Afghanistan now aims to sharpen their game for the remaining group matches.
