Can Nizakat Khan's Unbeaten 52 Lead Hong Kong to Victory Over Sri Lanka?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling Asia Cup encounter, Nizakat Khan's impressive 52 not out guided Hong Kong to a respectable total of 149/4 against Sri Lanka. With pivotal partnerships and key performances, Hong Kong aims to defend this total. Read on to discover the highlights and pivotal moments from this exciting match.
Key Takeaways
- Nizakat Khan scored an unbeaten 52 runs.
- Anshuman Rath supported well with 48 runs.
- Hong Kong achieved a total of 149/4.
- Partnerships were crucial for setting the target.
- Strategic batting against Sri Lankan bowlers.
Dubai, Sep 15 (NationPress) Nizakat Khan delivered a stellar performance, remaining unbeaten on 52 runs off 38 balls, leading Hong Kong to a commendable total of 149/4 against Sri Lanka during their Asia Cup Group B matchup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.
On a fresh pitch, Nizakat adeptly utilized his footwork and took advantage of the pace from the Sri Lankan bowlers, achieving only the second fifty by a Hong Kong player in the tournament’s history, following Babar Hayat. His impressive 61-run partnership with Anshuman Rath, who scored 48 runs off 46 balls, played a crucial role in setting a target that Hong Kong can aspire to defend against Sri Lanka.
Initially opting to bat first, Hong Kong enjoyed some fortune as Zeeshan Ali and Rath notched up three boundaries in the first three overs. Zeeshan was particularly fortunate, surviving an lbw appeal from Nuwan Thushara and being dropped at backward point.
However, Zeeshan's brisk innings came to an end in the fifth over, as he top-edged a delivery from Dushmantha Chameera to keeper Kusal Mendis, finishing with 23 runs off 17 balls. After concluding the power-play at 41/2, Rath greeted Wanindu Hasaranga with a pull for four.
As Hasaranga and Theekshana tightened their grip on the scoring, Babar Hayat attempted to break the stalemate with a lofted shot but was stumped by Hasaranga. Post halfway, Nizakat launched Hasaranga over long-on for a six and continued to accumulate runs with Rath through Charith Asalanka.
Displaying skill, Nizakat opened his bat face to slice a boundary off Thushara and later cut Theekshana for another four. After Rath drove Hasaranga through extra cover for four, Nizakat created space to loft a shot through mid-off.
Rath fell just short of his fifty, getting caught in deep mid-wicket off Chameera, followed by skipper Yasim Murtaza who was dismissed perfectly at deep backward point by Dasun Shanaka. Nizakat, who was dropped by Mendis, was nearly caught by Kusal Perera at fine third man, only for the dismissal to be overturned as Thushara had overstepped.
Unfazed, Nizakat propelled his team forward with a towering six off Chameera and completed his fifty off 36 balls with a sliced brace off Theekshana, guiding Hong Kong to a respectable closing total.
Brief Scores: Hong Kong 149/4 in 20 overs (Nizakat Khan 52 not out, Anshuman Rath 48; Dushmantha Chameera 2-29, Dasun Shanaka 1-5) against Sri Lanka
Point of View
I must commend Hong Kong's remarkable performance in the Asia Cup. Nizakat Khan's innings exemplifies the resilience and potential of our team. This match is a testament to the growth of cricket in Hong Kong, and it’s crucial to support our players as they strive for excellence on the international stage.
NationPress
15/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nizakat Khan?
Nizakat Khan is a talented cricketer representing Hong Kong, known for his exceptional batting skills and recent performances in international tournaments like the Asia Cup.
What was Hong Kong's total against Sri Lanka?
Hong Kong posted a total of 149 runs for the loss of 4 wickets against Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup clash.
When and where did the match take place?
The match took place on September 15 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium during the Asia Cup Group B stage.
How many runs did Anshuman Rath score?
Anshuman Rath scored 48 runs off 46 balls, contributing significantly to Hong Kong's total.
Did Hong Kong win the match?
The outcome of the match is yet to be determined as the focus is currently on Hong Kong's batting performance and their ability to defend their total.
