India, Sept. 9 -- The 2025 Asia Cup kicks off with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong in the tournament opener at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, September 9. While the fixture may not boast traditional heavyweights, it sets the tone for a tightly packed group that also includes Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Afghanistan head into this clash after a disappointing loss to Pakistan in the final of the tri-series in Sharjah. Despite that setback, they remain strong contenders, especially in conditions that suit their spin-heavy attack. Skipper Rashid Khan, along with Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad, and Fazalhaq Farooqi, gives Afghanistan one of the most balanced bowling units in the tournament. The key concern will be their batting, pa...