Hong Kong vs Sri Lanka – Asia Cup 2025, Group B Match 8 Preview

Hong Kong vs Sri Lanka – Asia Cup 2025, Group B Match 8 Preview

The Asia Cup 2025 Group B battle continues as Hong Kong face a tough challenge against Sri Lanka in Dubai.

• Sri Lanka began their campaign with a commanding win and will look to consolidate their place in the Super 4.
• Hong Kong, on the other hand, have lost both their games so far, and a third straight defeat would knock them out of the tournament.

This is a must-win for Hong Kong, while Sri Lanka will eye not just victory but also a strong NRR boost.

Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)

• Hong Kong: ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌
• Sri Lanka: ❌ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅

Sri Lanka look more settled, while Hong Kong need their batters to fire.

Players to Watch

Hong Kong

• Anshuman Rath (Bat): 375 runs in last 10 matches, avg 41.67, SR 151.2 – a classy top-order batter.
• Zeeshan Ali (Bat): 284 runs at SR 138.53 – dangerous if he gets going.
• Yasim Murtaza (All-rounder): 11 wickets at 6.98 econ, also handy with the bat.
• Ayush Shukla (Bowl): 9 wickets in 8 games – emerging strike bowler.

Sri Lanka

• Pathum Nissanka (Bat): 407 runs in 10 matches, avg 40.7, SR 146.4 – consistent run machine.
• Kusal Mendis (Bat): 237 runs at SR 128.1 – the experienced campaigner in the middle order.
• Dushmantha Chameera (Bowl): 9 wickets in 4 matches, lethal with the new ball.
• Wanindu Hasaranga (All-rounder): 8 wickets in just 4 games – the x-factor spinner.

Head-to-Head

This is a rare contest – Sri Lanka are the heavyweights, while Hong Kong are still finding their feet against top-tier nations. In past encounters, Sri Lanka have dominated with both bat and ball.

Pitch & Conditions – Dubai

• Dubai usually produces true batting tracks, with some assistance for spinners as the game progresses.
• Expect 160+ to be a competitive score.
• Dew could play a role in the second innings, making chasing easier.

Key Battles

• Anshuman Rath vs Wanindu Hasaranga: Can Rath handle Sri Lanka’s star spinner in the middle overs?
• Pathum Nissanka vs Ayush Shukla: A young Hong Kong pacer up against Sri Lanka’s most reliable batter.
• Zeeshan Ali vs Dushmantha Chameera: A potential powerplay decider.

Prediction Hong Kong vs Sri Lanka Asia Cup 2025 Preview

• Sri Lanka Advantage: Balanced squad with star spinners and a settled top order.
• Hong Kong Advantage: Nothing to lose — could play fearless cricket.

Prediction: Sri Lanka are clear favourites, but Hong Kong’s batters will look to challenge and push for an upset.