Bayuemas Cricket Oval: Hong Kong showcased a dominant performance in the 2025 Malaysia Tri-Nation T20I Series, securing a comprehensive 42-run victory over Malaysia in the third match of the tournament. Anshuman Rath was the star of the show, playing a match-winning knock of 97 runs off 66 balls to lead Hong Kong to a strong total of 185/3 in their 20 overs.
Hong Kong’s Solid Start Sets the Foundation
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Hong Kong got off to a quick start with Nizakat Khan scoring a brisk 23 off 12 balls. However, it was Anshuman Rath’s innings that defined Hong Kong’s dominance. Rath built solid partnerships, first with Zeeshan Ali, who scored a quick 40 off 25 balls, and later with other middle-order batters to push the score beyond the 180-mark.
Malaysia’s bowlers struggled to find breakthroughs. Aqeel Wahid (1/25), Syed Aziz (1/26), and Pavandeep Singh (1/42) picked up one wicket each, but the lack of consistent pressure allowed Hong Kong to build a formidable total of 185/3.
Anshuman Rath’s Commanding Innings
Anshuman Rath’s knock was the highlight of the innings. He mixed aggressive stroke play with intelligent running between the wickets, smashing 11 boundaries and one six. Rath fell just three runs short of a well-deserved century, but his innings ensured that Hong Kong posted a challenging target for Malaysia.
Malaysia’s Struggles with the Bat
Chasing 186 for victory, Malaysia lost early wickets, putting pressure on the middle order. Virandeep Singh played a fighting knock of 41 off 31 balls, but he lacked support from the other end. Ahmad Faiz contributed 21 off 13 balls, while Aqeel Wahid chipped in with 17 off 12 balls, but none of the batters could stitch together a match-winning partnership.
Hong Kong’s bowlers kept tight control over the game. Anas Khan led the attack with impressive figures of 3/30 in his four overs, while Ehsan Khan (2/21) and Ayush Shukla (2/26) ensured that Malaysia remained under constant pressure.
Hong Kong’s Comprehensive Victory
Malaysia eventually managed to score 143/9 in their 20 overs, falling short by 42 runs. Hong Kong’s disciplined bowling and Rath’s dominant innings secured their second win in the series, boosting their position on the points table.
Player of the Match
Anshuman Rath was named Player of the Match for his outstanding 97 off 66 balls, which laid the foundation for Hong Kong’s convincing win.
Score Summary:
- Hong Kong – 185/3 in 20 overs (Anshuman Rath 97, Zeeshan Ali 40; Aqeel Wahid 1/25)
- Malaysia – 143/9 in 20 overs (Virandeep Singh 41; Anas Khan 3/30, Ehsan Khan 2/21)
- Result: Hong Kong won by 42 runs
Hong Kong’s dominant win strengthens their position in the Tri-Nation T20I Series, while Malaysia will need to regroup and bounce back strongly in their upcoming matches.
