By News Editor 
Hong Kong and Kuwait faced off in the 21st match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier A at the YSD-UKM Cricket Oval, Bangi, but rain disrupted the contest leading to a no result after Kuwait’s innings was cut short in the fourth over.
Hong Kong, after being put in to bat by Kuwait, managed to post a total of 139/9 in 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Babar Hayat, who top-scored with a patient 42 off 48 balls. He was supported by cameos from Anas Khan, who blasted 18 off 8 balls, and Zeeshan Ali, who contributed a quickfire 18 off 10 balls. Despite their efforts, Hong Kong’s innings struggled to gain momentum as Kuwait’s bowlers, particularly Mohamed Shafeeq and Shiraz Khan, put in solid performances.
Shafeeq was the standout bowler for Kuwait, claiming 3 wickets for 35 runs in his 4 overs. He was well supported by Shiraz Khan, who bowled economically and took 2 wickets for 19 runs. Yasin Patel also contributed with 2 wickets.
In response, Kuwait’s chase started on a shaky note. Ravija Sandaruwan fell early for 3 runs, followed by Meet Bhavsar who was dismissed for 3. With the score at 11/2 in 4 overs, rain interrupted the match, and no further play was possible, resulting in a no result.
Key Highlights:
- Babar Hayat top-scored for Hong Kong with a composed 42 off 48 balls.
- Mohamed Shafeeq was the pick of Kuwait’s bowlers with figures of 3/35.
- Shiraz Khan impressed with 2/19 in his 4 overs.
- The match was called off due to rain with Kuwait at 11/2 in their chase of 140.
Brief Scores:
Hong Kong: 139/9 in 20 overs (Babar Hayat 42, Anas Khan 18; Mohamed Shafeeq 3/35, Shiraz Khan 2/19)
Kuwait: 11/2 in 4 overs (Clinto Anto 4*, Ehsan Khan 1/2)
Result: No result due to rain interruption
Though the match ended without a result, Hong Kong’s total of 139 and Kuwait’s solid start with the ball showed signs of a competitive game before the weather intervened. Both teams will look to regroup and refocus in their upcoming matches in the Asia Qualifier A.
Victoria Hamilton 
Madhavam