The matches continued with similar intensity in the Asia Cup 2025. The clash between Sri Lanka and Hong Kong in Group B at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium was one such match. In this match played on September 15, 2025, Sri Lanka defeated Hong Kong by 4 wickets, a thrilling chase that had fans glued to their screens till the 19th over.
Let’s take an in-depth look at the match highlights, key performances and what this result means for both the teams.
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka to choose to do bowling. Hong Kong, determined to prove their mettle against a full-member side, started positively.
Zeeshan Ali, the wicketkeeper-batter, provided a quick start with 23 runs off 17 balls (3 fours, 1 six), striking at 135.29. However, he was undone by Dushmantha Chameera, caught by Kusal Mendis.
Anshuman Rath played an anchor role with 48 runs from 46 balls (4 fours), maintaining stability even as wickets fell around him. His measured approach ensured Hong Kong had a platform.
Babar Hayat had a rare failure, dismissed for just 4 runs by Wanindu Hasaranga, stumped by Mendis.
The standout performance came from Nizakat Khan, who led from the front with a blistering 52 not out off 38 balls, striking at 136.84. His knock included 4 fours and 2 sixes and gave Hong Kong the late flourish they desperately needed.
Yasim Murtaza, the captain, chipped in with 5 off 4 balls, before falling cheaply to Dasun Shanaka.
Extras also helped Hong Kong’s cause, with 13 runs gifted (1 bye, 7 leg-byes, 4 wides, 1 no-ball).
At the end of 20 overs, Hong Kong posted a competitive 149/4, a score that looked defendable given the pressure of a chase in Dubai.
41/1 (Zeeshan Ali, 4.5 ov)
57/2 (Babar Hayat, 8.4 ov)
118/3 (Anshuman Rath, 15.5 ov)
127/4 (Yasim Murtaza, 17.2 ov)
The Sri Lankan bowling unit showed why they remain one of the most versatile attacks in Asia:
Chameera (4-0-29-2, Econ 7.20)
Wanindu Hasaranga (4-0-27-1)
Maheesh Theekshana (4-0-22-0)
Nuwan Thushara (4-0-36-0)
Skipper Charith Asalanka (3-0-22-0) and Dasun Shanaka (1-0-5-1)
Overall, Sri Lanka managed to control the innings, ensuring Hong Kong couldn’t cross the 150–160 danger zone.
Chasing 150, Sri Lanka got off to a mixed start:
Pathum Nissanka looked in sublime touch, smashing 68 runs off 44 balls (6 fours, 2 sixes) at a strike rate of 154.55. His aggressive strokeplay laid the foundation for Sri Lanka’s chase.
However, Kusal Mendis (11 off 14) fell early to Ayush Shukla.
Kamil Mishara supported well with 19 runs off 18 balls, but his dismissal slowed the momentum.
Kusal Perera (20 off 16) and Charith Asalanka (25 off 50) both got starts but couldn’t finish, with Asalanka struggling to rotate strike.
Kamindu Mendis departed for 5, increasing pressure.
At one stage, Sri Lanka were 127/6 in the 17th over, with Hong Kong sniffing an upset. But Dasun Shanaka’s calmness under pressure proved vital.
Shanaka remained unbeaten with 63 runs off 31 balls, striking at 203.22, including 6 fours and 3 sixes.
He finished the game in style, ensuring Sri Lanka got home with 7 balls to spare.
Wanindu Hasaranga (2* off 9) stayed at the other end, playing second fiddle.
Sri Lanka scored 153/6 in 18.5 overs, winning by 4 wickets.
26/1 (Kusal Mendis, 3.6 ov)
62/2 (Kamil Mishara, 9.3 ov)
119/3 (Pathum Nissanka, 15.1 ov)
119/4 (Kusal Perera, 15.2 ov)
122/5 (Asalanka, 16.2 ov)
127/6 (Kamindu Mendis, 17.1 ov)
Hong Kong’s bowlers fought hard and created genuine chances:
Yasim Murtaza (4-0-37-2) got two big wickets (Kusal Perera & Kamindu Mendis), but his economy of 9.20 was costly.
Ayush Shukla (3-0-30-1) struck early to dismiss Kusal Mendis.
Ehsan Khan (4-0-25-1) bowled smartly, claiming Asalanka.
Ateeq Iqbal (2.5-0-18-0) and Kinchit Shah (2-0-15-0) kept things tight in patches.
Aizaz Khan (3-0-27-1) chipped in with the wicket of Mishara.
Despite their effort, they couldn’t contain Shanaka’s fireworks in the death overs.
Match: Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong, Asia Cup 2025, Group B
Result: Sri Lanka won by 4 wickets
Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
Date: September 15, 2025
Player of the Match: Dasun Shanaka (63* off 31)
The Asia Cup 2025, Group B clash between Sri Lanka and Hong Kong was an exciting contest, highlighting the rise of associate nations like Hong Kong. Sri Lanka emerged with a point, while Hong Kong earned the honours with their spirited fight.
For Sri Lanka, this victory strengthens their campaign. And for Hong Kong, this match will serve as a confidence booster and a lesson for future challenges.
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Sri Lanka chased down Hong Kong’s total of 149 and won the match by four wickets with seven balls to spare.
Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka top-scored with 68 runs in the match-winning innings. Hong Kong’s Nizakat Khan scored an unbeaten 52 runs.
Sri Lanka’s Dushmantha Chameera took two wickets, while Hong Kong’s Yasmin Mortaza also took two wickets.
Sri Lanka’s Dushmantha Chameera took two wickets, while Hong Kong’s Yasmin Mortaza also took two wickets.
Hong Kong’s fielding was the turning point as they dropped many catches. Besides, the score over Srikantonga, Pathum Nissanka, is very expensive.