Afridi Masterclass Seals Chase
Pakistan secured their spot in the Plate Final of the 2026 Hong Kong Sixes with a commanding six-wicket victory over Hong Kong, China at the
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Pakistan faced a spirited challenge from the Hong Kong batting lineup. Nizakat Khan led the charge for the hosts, striking a rapid 38 off just 10 balls, while Anshy Rath provided vital support with 37 runs from 15 deliveries. Despite the aggressive approach from Hong Kong, Pakistan’s bowlers managed to keep the scoring in check, restricting their opponents to 106/3 at the end of their six overs.
Irfan Khan was the standout performer with the ball for Pakistan, claiming 2/16 in his single over. His ability to break partnerships proved crucial in preventing Hong Kong from setting a more daunting total on the compact Mission Road surface.
Pakistan Dominate the Run Chase
Facing a target of 107, Pakistan’s response was clinical and immediate. Any pressure that might have existed was quickly dismantled by Abbas Afridi, who produced a Player of the Match performance that effectively ended the contest. Afridi’s 55 runs came off a mere 13 balls, a display of power hitting that left the Hong Kong bowlers with few answers.
Supported by Khawaja Nafay, Afridi ensured that Pakistan reached the target without losing a single wicket. The partnership between the two batters was seamless, maintaining a high tempo that kept the required run rate well under control throughout the chase. While the match saw key moments swing the contest back and forth during the first innings, Pakistan’s composure in the second half of the game proved the difference.
With the victory, Pakistan advances to the next stage of the tournament, having successfully navigated a high-scoring encounter. Alongside Afridi’s heroics, significant contributions from Irfan Khan and Ahmed Daniyal throughout the match underscored a well-rounded team effort. Pakistan will now look to carry this momentum into the final, having demonstrated both the bowling discipline to restrict an aggressive side and the batting firepower to chase down a significant total with ease.
