An Indian-origin cricketer who never got the chance to represent Team India will now be seen playing alongside Babar Hayat and Hong Kong’s Pakistani-origin captain Yasin Murtaza in the Asia Cup 2025. The player in question is 27-year-old left-handed batsman Anshuman Rath, who is set to play a crucial role for Hong Kong in the tournament being held in the UAE.

Not Babar Azam, But Babar Hayat

When we say Anshuman will play with “Babar,” it doesn’t refer to Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam, but rather Babar Hayat, one of Hong Kong’s most experienced cricketers of Pakistani origin. Along with Hayat, Hong Kong skipper Yasin Murtaza, also of Pakistani descent, will lead the team in the Asia Cup. Together, this trio could prove vital in Hong Kong’s campaign.

Anshuman Rath’s Journey: From Odisha to Hong Kong

Born in Hong Kong in 1997, Anshuman Rath traces his roots back to Satyanagar, Odisha. His father moved to Hong Kong in 1990 to set up a business, and it was there that Anshuman was introduced to cricket at the age of 4. He made his T20I debut for Hong Kong in 2015 and has since played 68 T20Is.

Interestingly, Rath also tried his hand in Indian domestic cricket. He played in the 2021–22 Ranji Trophy season for Odisha, with his last domestic match coming in January 2023 against Himachal Pradesh. However, he could not break into the Indian national team and has since been a regular in Hong Kong’s squad.

Support From Babar Hayat

Rath is expected to get strong batting support from 33-year-old Babar Hayat, who usually opens the innings for Hong Kong. His role will be to provide a solid base so that Rath and others can capitalize later. Hayat was born in Attock, Pakistan, before moving to Hong Kong.

Yasin Murtaza: Hong Kong’s New Captain

Hong Kong will be led by Yasin Murtaza, a 34-year-old bowling all-rounder from Sialkot, Pakistan. Although he has represented Hong Kong for the past three years in T20 internationals, this will be his first major tournament as captain. Murtaza has taken 70 wickets in T20Is at an impressive economy of 6.33 and will look to guide his side with both bat and ball.

With Anshuman Rath’s Indian roots, Babar Hayat’s experience, and Yasin Murtaza’s leadership, Hong Kong’s campaign in the Asia Cup 2025 promises to be an exciting one.