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The Group A fixtures of the ACC Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 conclude today at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha, featuring two crucial matches that will significantly shape the semi-final bracket. Both Sri Lanka A and Hong Kong are hunting for their first win, while Bangladesh A and Afghanistan A battle for top spot dominance.
7th Match: Sri Lanka A vs. Hong Kong (Must-Win for Both)
Both Sri Lanka A and Hong Kong arrive into this contest looking to register their first points after suffering opening losses. This match is a virtual elimination game for both sides’ semi-final hopes.
Sri Lanka A Form
- Previous Match: Lost to Afghanistan A by 3 wickets, despite posting a competitive 170/9.
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Batting Strength: Their total was anchored by steady knocks from Nuwanidu Fernando (39) and captain Dunith Wellalage (33), with late firepower from Milan Rathnayake (41). They need their top order to capitalize on starts today.
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Bowling Threat: Spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth is their primary wicket-taker, having claimed 3 scalps in the opener.
Hong Kong Form
- Previous Match: Suffered a massive 8-wicket loss to Bangladesh A, largely due to a historic century in the chase.
- Batting Strength: Skipper Babar Hayat is the key threat, having smashed 63 runs in the first match. He was well-supported by a quick cameo from Yasim Murtaza (40 off 22) and a fiery finish by Kinchit Shah (20 off 4). They have the batting firepower to set a big total.
- Bowling Concern: The bowling unit struggled in their opener, conceding the target in the 11th over, putting pressure on key bowlers like Ehsan Khan.
Prediction Highlights:
- Top Batter: Vishen Halambage (Sri Lanka A) and Babar Hayat (Hong Kong) are predicted to lead the scoring.
- Predicted Winner: Sri Lanka A are favored (Match Handicap: Sri Lanka A).
8th Match: Bangladesh A vs. Afghanistan A (Group A Showdown)
This is a high-stakes clash between the two unbeaten teams in Group A, with the winner moving into pole position for a semi-final spot. Both sides secured strong wins in their opening fixtures.
Bangladesh A Form
- Previous Match: Crushed Hong Kong by 8 wickets with 9 overs to spare.
- Batting Strength: Their performance was headlined by a sensational, unbeaten 35-ball 100 from Habibur Rahman Sohan, demonstrating explosive T20 capability.
- Bowling Strength: Ripon Mondol is the leading wicket-taker, providing crucial early strikes.
Afghanistan A Form
- Previous Match: Clinched a tight 3-wicket victory over Sri Lanka A, successfully chasing 171 runs.
- Batting Strength: The chase was expertly led by Sediqullah Atal (54) and Imran Mir, with captain Darwish Rasooli contributing vital runs to reach the target in the final over.
- Bowling Strength: Bilal Sami is the current leading wicket-taker in the tournament with 4 scalps, proving their bowling is a serious threat.
Prediction Highlights:
- Top Batter: Habibur Rahman Sohan (Bangladesh A) and Darwish Rasooli (Afghanistan A) are the key batsmen to watch.
- Predicted Winner: Bangladesh A are favored (Match Handicap: Bangladesh A), likely due to their superior Net Run Rate established by Sohan’s blitz.
Final Thoughts
Today’s results will determine who gets an early ticket to the semi-finals. While the first match is a tense battle for survival, the second promises a high-octane confrontation between two teams boasting both powerful batting and lethal spin options.
Image Credits: Cricket World
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