KATHMANDU, Nepal — Afghanistan’s under-19 cricket team claimed a dominant second win at the ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Asia Qualifier on Monday, defeating Hong Kong by eight wickets.
After bowling out Hong Kong for just 70 runs in 36.2 overs, Afghanistan chased down the target with minimal resistance, finishing at 71 for 2 to seal victory in under 15 overs.
Hafeezullah Zadran spearheaded the bowling attack with figures of 3 for 16, while six other bowlers shared wickets in a collective performance that dismantled Hong Kong’s batting lineup. Nasratullah Nuristani took 2 for 2, and Zaitullah Shaheen, Wahidullah Zadran, Uzair Khan, Mahboob Khan and Nazifullah Amiri each claimed a wicket.
The win builds on Afghanistan’s eight-wicket triumph over Oman a day earlier, where the team successfully chased a 92-run target in just 11.1 overs. Khalil Ahmadzai and Uzair Khan Niazi led the previous effort with scores of 40 and 27, respectively.
Afghanistan is one of five teams competing in the Asia qualifier, alongside Nepal, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Hong Kong. The tournament, hosted by Nepal, will determine which team advances to the 2026 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.
With two convincing wins in as many days, Afghanistan’s U-19 squad has emerged as a strong contender to top the group and secure qualification.
