Sri Lanka Crowned Champions After Thrilling Victory Over Pakistan in Hong Kong Sixes 2024 Final
Hong Kong: The Hong Kong Sixes 2024 concluded with a thrilling display of cricketing fireworks, as Sri Lanka emerged as champions after defeating Pakistan by 3 wickets in a nail-biting final match.
In the highly anticipated final, Pakistan, after being put into bat, managed a total of 72 runs in 5.2 overs. Muhammad Akhlaq was the standout performer, scoring a brisk 48 off 20 balls. Despite a promising start, Pakistan’s batting lineup couldn’t sustain the momentum and fell short of posting a higher score.
In response, Sri Lanka faced initial pressure from the Pakistani bowlers but soon gained control. Sandun Weerakkody set the pace with a quick 34 off 13 balls, while captain Lahiru Madushanka (19 off 5) and Tharindu Ratnayake (16* off 4) played crucial knocks to guide their team to victory.
Australia’s Dan Christian Steals the Spotlight in Semi-Final
Earlier in the day, Australia’s Dan Christian delivered a stellar performance in the semi-final against Pakistan, smashing an incredible six sixes in one over off Asif Ali. Christian’s fireworks helped Australia post a challenging 107/1 in 6 overs, with his 42* off just 10 balls setting the stage. However, Pakistan responded with a powerful batting display, successfully chasing down the target in 5.5 overs. Muhammad Akhlaq (32 off 10) and Asif Ali (32 off 8) showcased aggressive batting, with Faheem Ashraf (19* off 9) and Aamer Yamin (24* off 8) completing the chase to book Pakistan’s spot in the final.
Sri Lanka’s Semi-Final Triumph Against Bangladesh
Sri Lanka secured their place in the final after a close-fought battle with Bangladesh in the semi-final. Bangladesh set a target of 103 runs, with Tharindu Ratnayake’s four-wicket haul proving crucial. In reply, Sri Lanka started strong with Weerakkody scoring a fifty before retiring. Despite a late comeback from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka managed to cross the finish line with 3 wickets to spare in the final over.
Oman Claims Bowl Final Against England
In the Bowl final, Oman emerged victorious against England, chasing down a target of 124 runs. England, batting first, posted a strong total of 123/1, thanks to fifties from Ravi Bopara and Jordan Thompson. Oman’s chase was led by Asif Khan (47* off 17) and Vinayak Shukla (38 off 12), whose opening partnership of 75 runs set the tone for a successful chase, completed with one ball to spare.
South Africa Edges UAE in Plate Final
The Plate Final saw South Africa narrowly defeat UAE in a close finish. South Africa managed 96/4 in their 6 overs, with JJ Smuts scoring a valuable 67 off 18 balls. The Proteas bowlers then stepped up to restrict UAE to 95/4, clinching a 1-run victory in a thrilling end to their campaign.
The Hong Kong Sixes 2024 delivered an action-packed tournament with stunning performances and unforgettable moments. Sri Lanka’s victory marks a historic achievement in the tournament, capping off a sensational weekend of cricket.