India vs Pakistan | Highlights | Hong Kong Sixes | 2024

Courtesy: Fancode

Pakistan clinched an impressive six-wicket victory over India in Pool C of the Hong Kong International Sixes, chasing down a challenging target of 120 with an over to spare. Asif Ali stole the show with a jaw-dropping 55* off just 14 balls, earning him the Player of the Match award for his explosive innings that proved decisive at Mong Kok’s Mission Road Ground.

India Sets a Strong Target

India, after winning the toss and opting to bat, put up a solid total of 119/2 in their allotted six overs. Captain Robin Uthappa led the charge, scoring a quickfire 31 off 8 balls, including three boundaries and three sixes, before being dismissed by Faheem Ashraf. Bharat Chipli, however, was the anchor for India, retiring hurt after an impressive 53 off 16 balls, packed with six fours and four sixes, maintaining an aggressive strike rate of 331.25. Kedar Jadhav (8 off 3) and Manoj Tiwary (17 off 7) also made handy contributions, with Tiwary finishing not out alongside Stuart Binny, who added 4 from 2 balls. India finished with a run rate of 19.83, setting Pakistan a challenging 120 to win.

Pakistan’s Dominant Chase

Pakistan’s response was electric, with Muhammad Akhlaq and Asif Ali laying down the foundation for a strong chase. Akhlaq scored a blistering 40 off 12 balls, smashing three fours and four sixes. However, it was Asif Ali’s fireworks that truly lit up the innings. Playing with aggressive intent, he scored an unbeaten 55 off only 14 deliveries, hitting two fours and seven sixes at a staggering strike rate of 392.85. Captain Faheem Ashraf also contributed a quick 22* off 5 balls with three sixes, guiding Pakistan to the target in just five overs with a commanding run rate of 24.20.

Asif Ali’s outstanding innings showcased his power-hitting abilities, which swung the game in Pakistan’s favor. His seamless ability to clear the ropes under pressure was instrumental in Pakistan reaching 121 without losing a wicket, securing a six-wicket win with six balls to spare.

This victory awards Pakistan two crucial points in Pool C and puts them in a strong position in the Hong Kong Sixes tournament. Asif Ali’s explosive performance and Muhammad Akhlaq’s steady support highlight Pakistan's formidable form as they advance in the competition

India: 119/2 in 6 overs (Bharat Chipli 53*, Robin Uthappa 31, Faheem Ashraf 2/50)
Pakistan: 121/0 in 5 overs (Asif Ali 55*, Muhammad Akhlaq 40*)

Pakistan won by 6 wickets with 6 balls remaining