Pakistan made a winning start in Hong Kong Sixes 2024 as they comfortably chased down the 120-run target against India. The game took place at the Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok on Friday (November 1).
The Men in Green decided to bowl first in the contest, which initially didn’t look to be a bright decision. Skipper Robin Uthappa (31 off 8) provided a blistering start to the Indian side, but couldn’t convert his start and was bowled by Faheem Ashraf. Then, Bharat Chipli was terrific with his ball-striking to slam 53 off 16, while taking out 32 runs from an over.
Although, Kedar Jadhav (8) failed to contribute, Manoj Tiwary (17* off 7) provided a flourish as India posted a total of 119 in six overs. Ashraf picked up both wickets for the Indian side.
In response, Asif Ali and Muhammad Akhlaq were sensational with their hitting, as they annihilated the Indian bowling unit. Ali was the key tormentor with his knock of 55 off 14 balls (retired hurt), with two fours and seven sixes. In the end, Akhlaq (40* off 12) and Ashraf (22* off 5) remained unbeaten as Pakistan sealed the chase with one over to spare.
Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka win both games on Day 1 of Hong Kong Sixes 2024
Prior to facing India, Pakistan clashed against United Arab Emirates. Asif Ali and Muhammad Akhlaq scored fifties each to boost Pakistan’s total to 128. Thereafter, Ali took two wickets as UAE fell short by 13 runs. As a result, Pakistan are currently the table-toppers with wins in two games, and are expected to seal the semi-final spot.
Meanwhile, South Africa also won their both games on Friday. In their first fixture, the Proteas met Hong Kong, where the home team compiled a total of 92. Then, the collective effort of South African batters helped them to chase down the score with eight balls to spare. Thereafter, South Africa beat New Zealand by five wickets, as they chased down 42 in two overs.
On the other hand, Sri Lanka got past the challenge of Oman in comfortable fashion, as they chased down 81 in just 4.1 overs. In the final game of the day, the Islanders posted a total of 107 and defended it well by 18 runs.
The Indian team will play against UAE tomorrow morning, but they will not be able to contend for a semi-final spot, as Pakistan already have won two games.
