India Triumphs in Rain-Marred Hong Kong Sixes Classic
In a match filled with high-octane drama, Team India secured a thrilling two-run victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in a rain-affected Pool C encounter at the Hong Kong Sixes 2025 on Friday. The gripping contest at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground was ultimately decided by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method after persistent rain interruptions.
Explosive Batting Powers India to Competitive Total
Choosing to bat first, India posted a challenging total of 86 for 4 in their allocated six overs. The innings was ignited by veteran batsman Robin Uthappa, who blazed his way to a spectacular 28 runs from just 11 deliveries. Uthappa's explosive knock included three massive sixes and two boundaries, setting a formidable platform early on. Bharat Chipli provided solid support with a well-made 24 off 13 balls, while captain Dinesh Karthik contributed a quickfire unbeaten 17 from merely six deliveries to give the innings late momentum. Despite Pakistan's bowlers managing to restrict the scoring in the final over, India's total proved highly competitive given the damp outfield conditions.
Rain Intervenes as Pakistan Chase Intensifies
Pakistan began their run chase with aggressive intent, with opener Khawaja Nafay smashing 18 runs in the very first over. However, Stuart Binny brought India back into contention with a disciplined bowling performance in the second over, claiming the wicket of Maaz Sadaqat for seven runs. Pakistan seemed to be cruising towards victory at 41 for 1 after three overs, with Nafay (18 off 9) and Abdul Samad (16 off 6) looking increasingly comfortable at the crease. Just as the match reached its climax, heavy rain descended upon the ground, forcing multiple umpire inspections before the match was officially called off.
DLS Method Seals Indian Victory
The application of the DLS method revealed that Pakistan had fallen two runs short of the par score, handing India a hard-fought victory in this electrifying encounter. Stuart Binny's economical spell of 1 for 7 from his over proved decisive in tilting the balance in India's favor. For his match-defining innings, Robin Uthappa was awarded the Player of the Match trophy. This crucial win propelled India to the top of Pool C with two points, while Pakistan slipped to second position with one win and one loss from their two matches. Kuwait remained at the bottom of the table without any victories.
The Hong Kong Sixes 2025 tournament features an exciting fast-paced format where each team plays a single round-robin within their pool. The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, followed by knockout stages and classification matches to determine the final standings.
