Hong Kong Sixes 2025: India Falls Short, Missing Quarterfinals
The Indian cricket team faced a tough day at the Hong Kong Sixes 2025 tournament in Mong Kok, losing all three matches on Saturday and failing to advance to the quarterfinals.
Group Stage Defeat to Kuwait
India's hopes were dashed after a 27-run loss to Kuwait in their final group match. Chasing 107, India could only muster 79 for 6. Kuwait’s Yasin Patel played a crucial role, taking three wickets for 23 runs. This victory secured quarterfinal spots for Pakistan and Kuwait, while India was relegated to the 'Bowl' matches.
Continued Struggles Against UAE
In the 'Bowl' round, India faced the UAE but their struggles persisted. Despite rapid innings from Abhimanyu Mithun (50 off 16 balls) and Dinesh Karthik (42 off 14 balls), they could not defend a total of 108. UAE’s Khalid Shah delivered a powerful 50 off 14 balls, leading his team to a four-wicket victory.
Heavy Defeat by Nepal
India’s campaign ended with a decisive loss to Nepal by 92 runs. Nepal posted an impressive 137 runs without losing a wicket in six overs. In response, India was restricted to 45 for 6. Nepal’s Rashid Khan stood out with a brilliant 55 off 17 balls and took three wickets.
"Despite quick-fire knocks from Abhimanyu Mithun (50 off 16) and Dinesh Karthik (42 off 14), India failed to defend their total of 108 as UAE’s Khalid Shah hit a blistering 50 off 14 balls to seal a four-wicket win."
"Nepal posted a massive 137 for no loss in six overs, and then restricted India to 45 for 6. Rashid Khan starred for Nepal by scoring 55 off 17 deliveries and taking three wickets."
Summary: India's Hong Kong Sixes 2025 campaign ended abruptly as defeats to Kuwait, UAE, and Nepal prevented the team from reaching the quarterfinals, highlighting a day of missed opportunities and strong opposition performances.