Hong Kong Sixes: Uthappa Leads India Past Pakistan in Rain-Hit Clash
Hong Kong: Robin Uthappa and Bharat Chipli delivered explosive innings as India edged Pakistan by two runs using the DLS method in a rain-affected Pool C encounter at the Hong Kong Sixes on Friday.
India’s Aggressive Batting Display
Uthappa hammered 28 runs from just 11 balls, while Chipli added 24 off 13 deliveries to power India to 86/4 in six overs. Their quick partnership set the stage for a competitive total in the shortened format.
Rain Halts Pakistan’s Chase
Pakistan made a strong start, reaching 41/1 after three overs. However, heavy rain interrupted play, and when the match was called off, the DLS calculation left Pakistan two runs adrift of the required score.
“Uthappa smashed a quick-fire 28 off 11 balls and Chipli struck 24 (13b) as India posted 86/4 in six overs.”
Stuart Binny’s tight spell, conceding only seven runs and taking a key wicket, turned out to be the decisive factor for India.
Elsewhere in the Tournament
Pool B: Australia Dominate UAE
Australia stormed to a 10-wicket victory over the UAE, chasing down 88 in only three overs. Jack Wood blazed an unbeaten 55 off 11 balls, supported by Nick Hobson’s 26 from five deliveries.
Pool A: Afghanistan Maintain Momentum
In Pool A, Afghanistan secured a commanding 49-run win against South Africa, marking their second triumph of the tournament. Captain Gulbadin Naib smashed 50 off 12 balls, and Karim Janat chipped in with 46 off 11, propelling the team to 148/2 in six overs. South Africa managed 99/2 in reply.
“Afghanistan continued their strong form, notching up a commanding 49-run win over South Africa.”
Author’s Summary
India edged Pakistan in a rain-curtailed thriller, while Australia and Afghanistan recorded emphatic wins to underline their dominance in the Hong Kong Sixes competition.