HONG KONG: (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka celebrated a memorable victory over Pakistan by three wickets with six balls to spare to win the famous Hong Kong Cricket Sixers for the second time, 17 years after their first win in 2007. The final took place at Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Hong Kong on Sunday.
Batting first, Pakistan struggled and scored only 72 runs for the loss of six wickets in just 5.2 overs. Muhammad Akhlaq was the outstanding performer, scoring 48 runs, while Faheem Ashraf added 13 runs. Sri Lanka’s bowlers excelled, with Dhananjaya Lakshan shining by taking two wickets for just six runs. Tharindu Rathnayake also impressed, claiming two wickets for 25 runs. Nimesh Vimukthi and Lihuru Madusanka each contributed with one wicket, conceding only eight runs.
In response, Sri Lanka chased down the target with ease, finishing at 76 runs for three wickets in five overs. Sandun Weerakkody led the innings with a strong 34 runs, supported by Lihuru Madhusanka with 19 runs and Tharindu Rathnayake, who finished not out on 16. Although Faheem Ashraf and Hussain Talat took one wicket each for Pakistan, they could not stop Sri Lanka from sealing the win.
Dhananjaya Lakshan was named Player of the Final for his excellent bowling, while Tharindu Rathnayake was awarded Player of the Series. The last time Sri Lanka won this tournament, they were led by Indika de Saram, with a team that included Saman Jayantha, Jeevantha Kulatunga, Dilhara Lokuhettige, Kaushalya Weeraratne, Ranga Dias, and Anil Rideemammanagedara.
Brief scores:
Pakistan Innings: 72/6 in 5.2 overs (Muhammad Akhalq 48, Faheem Ashraf 13; Dhananjaya Lakshan 2/06, Tharindu Rathnayake 2/25, Nimesh Vimukthi 1/08, Lihuru Madusanka 1/08).
Sri Lanka innings: 76/3 in 5 overs (Sandun Weerakkody 34, Lihuru Madhusanka 19, Tharindu Rathnayake 16*; Faheem Ashraf 1-19, Hussain Talat 1-18).
