MONG KOK: Pakistan secured a confident victory over India in the Hong Kong International Sixes tournament on Friday, chasing the target with an over to spare, thanks to a powerful half-century by Asif Ali.
India’s innings started strong, with skipper Robin Uthappa scoring 31 runs, including three fours and three sixes, before Pakistan captain Faheem Ashraf bowled him out. Bharat Chipli was India’s standout player, hitting a half-century in just 16 balls with six fours and four sixes. Chipli was eventually forced to retire due to an injury. Soon after, Jedar Jadhav was dismissed, hitting Ashraf’s delivery into Shahab Khan’s hands. Manoj Tiwary added 17 runs, and Stuart Binny contributed a modest four, leaving India with a target of 120.
Pakistan responded decisively. Asif Ali delivered an impressive 50 off only 14 balls, smashing seven sixes and two fours before retiring due to injury. Muhammad Akhlaq supported with 40 runs from 12 balls, hitting three fours and four sixes. Captain Faheem Ashraf then closed out the match with three consecutive sixes, finishing with 22 runs to bring Pakistan’s total to 121.
With this win, Pakistan leads Pool C after winning both of their matches.
