Hong Kong, the rising associate cricket nation, is once again gearing up for the big stage at the Asia Cup 2025. After successfully securing their place through the Asia Cup Qualifiers, they head into the tournament eager to challenge the continent’s best with their fearless, no-pressure approach and a tightly knit squad of experienced campaigners and youthful energy.
While the Hong Kong Cricket Association (HKCA) is yet to officially unveil the squad, performances in the qualifiers and recent T20 tournaments offer a reliable blueprint for what the team may look like. Here’s a predicted squad based on form, recent selections, and team balance.
Hong Kong Squad for Asia Cup 2025 (Expected)
| Player Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Nizakat Khan (C) | Top-order Batter |
| Babar Hayat | Middle-order Batter |
| Yasim Murtaza | Batting All-Rounder |
| Kinchit Shah | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Aizaz Khan | Bowling All-Rounder |
| Haroon Arshad | All-Rounder |
| Ayush Shukla | Right-arm Fast Bowler |
| Ehsan Khan | Off-Spinner |
| Aftab Hussain | Medium-fast Bowler |
| Zeeshan Ali | Fast Bowler |
| Scott McKechnie | Wicketkeeper |
| Nasrulla Rana | Bowler |
| Wajid Shah | Left-arm Spinner |
| Ahan Trivedi | Batting All-Rounder |
| Mohammad Ghazanfar | Leg Spinner |
Note: This is a projected squad. The official announcement from HKCA is expected in the coming weeks.
Key Players to Watch
Nizakat Khan (Captain) – A consistent performer and an inspirational leader who sets the tone at the top.
Babar Hayat – The powerhouse batter who can take on spinners and pacers alike, vital in crunch situations.
Yasim Murtaza – A reliable all-rounder with the ability to change the game with bat or ball.
Ehsan Khan – A crafty off-spinner with plenty of T20 experience, particularly effective on slow UAE surfaces.
Aizaz Khan – A veteran all-rounder and former captain, bringing balance and bowling depth to the side.
Predicted Playing XI for Hong Kong
Based on recent matches and UAE-friendly conditions, here’s how Hong Kong’s playing XI could shape up:
- Nizakat Khan (C)
- Kinchit Shah (WK)
- Babar Hayat
- Yasim Murtaza
- Aizaz Khan
- Haroon Arshad
- Scott McKechnie
- Ehsan Khan
- Aftab Hussain
- Ayush Shukla
- Wajid Shah / Mohammad Ghazanfar
Asia Cup 2025 – Hong Kong Group Stage Fixtures
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| September 9 | Afghanistan vs Hong Kong | UAE |
| September 11 | Hong Kong vs Bangladesh | UAE |
| September 15 | Hong Kong vs Sri Lanka | UAE |
Squad Analysis
Hong Kong may not have the star power of bigger Asian nations, but they’ve earned respect through grit and performances in crunch games. The team’s spin-heavy bowling, versatile all-rounders, and experienced top order give them the weapons to surprise stronger sides.
In T20s, momentum can swing quickly, and with fearless intent and tactical discipline, Hong Kong could be the tournament’s dark horse.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Strong Spin Options for UAE Conditions
- Experienced Top Order in Nizakat & Babar Hayat
- All-Round Depth in Middle Overs
Weaknesses:
- Lack of Big-Match Experience
- Fragile Lower Order Under Pressure
- Inconsistent Pace Attack Depth
Recent Form and Build-Up to Asia Cup 2025
Hong Kong’s route to the Asia Cup came via the Qualifiers, where they overcame teams like UAE, Nepal, and Oman. Their preparations have included T20 friendlies and domestic camps, with a strong focus on fitness and spin combinations.
Players like Kinchit Shah and Murtaza have also featured in regional franchise leagues, giving them valuable exposure.
Can Hong Kong Pull Off a Surprise?
Cricket fans know that in T20s, anything can happen. While Hong Kong won’t be favorites, they’ll embrace the underdog status. With key players peaking at the right time and conditions that favor spin, don’t count them out for a Super Four berth.
If they can grab an early upset, the entire group could be turned on its head.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Has Hong Kong announced its squad for Asia Cup 2025?
Not yet. The official squad announcement is awaited, but likely players are already in focus based on recent qualifiers and series.
2. Who is the captain of Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2025?
Nizakat Khan is expected to lead the Hong Kong team during the tournament.
3. Where will Hong Kong’s matches be held?
All group stage matches involving Hong Kong will be played in the UAE — mostly in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
4. Can Hong Kong qualify for the Super Four?
Yes, if they win at least one group match and maintain a healthy net run rate, they have a chance to reach the Super Four.
5. Who are Hong Kong’s key players?
Babar Hayat, Yasim Murtaza, Aizaz Khan, and Nizakat Khan are expected to play major roles in their Asia Cup 2025 campaign.
