Asia Cup 2025: AFG vs HK pitch report, highest score, Abu Dhabi key stats

Among individual performers at the venue, Shaiman Anwar leads the batting charts with 340 runs, while Bilal Khan tops the bowling charts with 19 wickets

Afghanistan and Hong Kong will open the Asia Cup 2025 at Zayed Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, September 9. Afghanistan enter as overwhelming favourites, boasting a well-rounded squad with explosive openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and captain Ibrahim Zadran, supported by the all-round abilities of Karim Janat, Gulbadin Naib, and Azmatullah Omarzai. Their biggest strength remains spin, with Rashid Khan, Mujeeb ur Rahman, and Noor Ahmad forming a world-class trio. Pace options like Fareed Ahmad and Abdollah Ahmadzai add variety.  Hong Kong, meanwhile, will rely heavily on Babar Hayat and Anshy Rath for runs, but their middle order has lacked consistency. Yasim Murtaza and Ehsan Khan bring some spin control, though their seam attack looks limited. Against Afghanistan’s firepower, Hong Kong face a daunting challenge in the tournament opener.   

But how is the wicket in Abu Dhabi expected to behave during the Asia Cup 2025 opener, and what are the key stats of the venue? Take a look.

Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi pitch report for Afghanistan vs Hong Kong, Asia Cup 2025 match

The pitch at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi promises a balanced contest. In the first innings, batters can expect good carry, though seamers will have some early movement to work with. Spinners could also play a role if they maintain accuracy, especially in the middle overs. However, as the evening sets in, dew is likely to make batting conditions easier, with the ball skidding nicely onto the bat. This should benefit chasing sides, who can plan with confidence.

But how is the wicket in Abu Dhabi expected to behave during the Asia Cup 2025 opener, and what are the key stats of the venue? Take a look.

Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi pitch report for Afghanistan vs Hong Kong, Asia Cup 2025 match

The pitch at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi promises a balanced contest. In the first innings, batters can expect good carry, though seamers will have some early movement to work with. Spinners could also play a role if they maintain accuracy, especially in the middle overs. However, as the evening sets in, dew is likely to make batting conditions easier, with the ball skidding nicely onto the bat. This should benefit chasing sides, who can plan with confidence.