- Tue, March 15, 2022
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Courtesy: Fancode
In a heart-stopping encounter at the Hong Kong Sixes tournament, the United Arab Emirates edged out India by a single run in Pool C, with Khalid Shah emerging as the Player of the Match. Set a challenging target of 131 in just six overs, India’s determined chase fell agonizingly short, finishing at 129/4, with UAE claiming the victory at Mong Kok's Mission Road Ground.
UAE’s Explosive Innings
Batting first, UAE showcased explosive firepower, racking up 130 runs in their six overs. Although skipper Asif Khan fell on the very first ball to Bharat Chipli, the innings soon gained momentum thanks to Khalid Shah, who delivered a blistering 42 off just 10 balls, including a staggering six sixes. Supported by Muhammad Zuhaib’s quickfire 17 and Zahoor Khan’s 37 off 11 at the end, UAE posted an intimidating total. Stuart Binny was the standout bowler for India, claiming three wickets for 31 runs across his two overs.
India’s Spirited Response
In pursuit of 131, India came out swinging. Bharat Chipli (20 off 6) and Manoj Tiwary (10 off 3) provided a fast start but fell early. Robin Uthappa, India’s captain, anchored the middle overs with an explosive 43 from 10 balls, keeping India in the hunt. The game came down to the wire as Stuart Binny, determined to finish the chase, played a stellar knock of 44 from 11 balls. However, UAE’s fielding proved decisive, with Khalid Shah and wicketkeeper Asif Khan running Binny out on the second-last ball, leaving India just two runs shy of the target.
Khalid Shah’s incredible contribution with the bat, scoring at a phenomenal strike rate of 420, laid the foundation for UAE’s victory and earned him the Player of the Match accolade. His energy in the field was equally influential, particularly in the last moments when his presence led to Binny’s run-out, sealing the win.
A Tense Finish for the Ages
This nail-biting victory has awarded UAE two points in Pool C and put them in a strong position in the Hong Kong Sixes tournament. India, despite coming heartbreakingly close, will need to regroup quickly to stay in contention.
This unforgettable showdown at Mong Kok has set the tone for what promises to be a riveting tournament, with UAE emerging as a team to watch out for in the Hong Kong Sixes 2024.
UAE: 130/5 in 6 overs (Khalid Shah 42, Zahoor Khan 37*, Stuart Binny 3/31)
India: 129/4 in 6 overs (Robin Uthappa 43, Stuart Binny 44, Akif Raja 1/21)
UAE won by 1 run
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