Hong Kong, China has officially unveiled its 20-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. The announcement marks the team’s fifth appearance in the prestigious continental tournament, having previously featured in the 2004, 2008, 2018, and 2022 editions.
Led by all-rounder Yasim Murtaza, the squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and promising young talent. Veteran batter Babar Hayat has been named vice-captain, adding leadership depth to a side that aims to punch above its weight in Group B, where they will face Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
🧭 Squad Composition: Experience Meets Youth
| Role | Player Names |
|---|---|
| Captain | Yasim Murtaza |
| Vice-Captain | Babar Hayat |
| Wicketkeepers | Zeeshan Ali, Shahid Wasif |
| Top-order Batters | Niazakat Khan Mohammad, Martin Coetzee, Anshuman Rath |
| Middle-order Batters | Kalhan Marc Challu, Ayush Ashish Shukla, Kinchit Shah, Adil Mehmood, Anas Khan |
| All-rounders | Mohammad Aizaz Khan, Ateeq Ul Rehman Iqbal, Haroon Mohammad Arshad |
| Spinners | Ehsan Khan, Ghazanfar Mohammad |
| Fast Bowlers | Nasrulla Rana, Ali-Hassan, Mohammad Waheed |
The squad was finalized following Hong Kong’s qualification through the ACC Premier Cup 2024, where they defeated Nepal in the third-place playoff to secure their spot.
📊 Match Schedule: Group B Challenges Await
Hong Kong will kick off its Asia Cup campaign against Afghanistan on September 9 in Abu Dhabi. The team will then face Bangladesh on September 11 and Sri Lanka on September 15.
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| September 9 | Afghanistan vs Hong Kong | Abu Dhabi |
| September 11 | Hong Kong vs Bangladesh | Abu Dhabi |
| September 15 | Hong Kong vs Sri Lanka | Dubai |
The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage, making every group match critical for Hong Kong’s progression.
🔍 Strategic Focus: Leadership, Depth, and Adaptability
Head Coach Kaushal Silva emphasized the importance of building a winning mentality and acclimatizing to UAE conditions. The team will undergo a preparation camp starting August 24, featuring competitive matches and under-lights training sessions.
| Strategic Element | Key Players Involved | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Leadership | Yasim Murtaza, Babar Hayat | Tactical clarity, morale boost |
| Spin Attack | Ehsan Khan, Ghazanfar Mohammad | Middle overs control |
| Batting Depth | Anshuman Rath, Kinchit Shah, Shahid Wasif | Flexibility across formats |
| Youth Integration | Ayush Shukla, Kalhan Challu | Energy, fielding agility |
Silva stated, “We are not here to participate; we are here to compete, win games, and enjoy the experience. The strength of this squad lies in the balance we have built, combining experienced senior players with exciting young talent.”
📉 Historical Performance and Tournament Outlook
Hong Kong last featured in the Asia Cup in 2022, where they failed to progress past the group stage after losses to India and Pakistan. This year, the team is determined to rewrite its narrative and challenge full-member nations.
| Edition | Performance Summary |
|---|---|
| 2004 | Group Stage Exit |
| 2008 | Group Stage Exit |
| 2018 | Competitive vs India, Group Stage Exit |
| 2022 | Lost to India and Pakistan, Group Stage Exit |
With a more balanced squad and focused preparation, Hong Kong hopes to make its first-ever Super Four appearance.
🧠 Support Staff and Preparatory Plans
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Head Coach | Kaushal Silva |
| Assistant Coach | Andrew Lloyd |
| Consultant Coach | Mario Suresh Villavarayen |
| Team Analyst | Christopher Pickett |
| Physio | Max Yeung |
| Team Manager | Smita Chhetri |
The support staff will oversee tactical drills, match simulations, and mental conditioning sessions to prepare the squad for high-pressure encounters.
📌 Conclusion
Hong Kong, China’s 20-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 reflects a bold and balanced approach to one of Asia’s most competitive cricket tournaments. With Yasim Murtaza at the helm and Babar Hayat providing seasoned support, the team is poised to challenge expectations and make a mark on the continental stage.
As the countdown to September 9 begins, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether Hong Kong can convert preparation into performance and secure a historic Super Four berth.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available news reports and official statements as of August 23, 2025. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute sports, selection, or betting advice.
