UAE edge Pakistan in last-over thriller at Hong Kong Sixes

Defending champions Pakistan suffered a disappointing start to their Hong Kong Sixes 2026 campaign, going down to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by one wicket in a last-over thriller at Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok on Friday.

The Group C encounter saw the UAE pull off an impressive chase despite Pakistan posting a formidable total, with their captain Khalid Shah producing a breathtaking batting display.

How did Pakistan set up a competitive total?

After being put into bat, Pakistan accumulated 106-3 in their six overs, largely thanks to an explosive knock from skipper Abbas Afridi.

Afridi smashed 53 off just 13 balls, clearing the boundary eight times and hitting one four to provide Pakistan with a flying start.

Abdul Samad provided further impetus with 39 from 15 deliveries, striking five fours and two sixes. Irfan Khan Niazi chipped in with eight off three balls, including a maximum, while Khawaja Nafay managed only three. Saad Masood remained unbeaten on one.

Muhammad Farooq and Maroof Merchant picked up a wicket each for the UAE.

How did the UAE pull off the stunning chase?

Chasing 107, the UAE kept their hopes alive through an extraordinary performance from Khalid Shah, who single-handedly turned the contest in his side's favour.

The UAE captain hammered 71 from just 20 deliveries, registering three fours and nine sixes to put the defending champions under immense pressure.

Zahid Ali complemented his skipper with an important 22 off eight balls, including two boundaries and two sixes, as the UAE reached the target in the final over, losing nine wickets.

For Pakistan, Afridi, Samad and Irfan claimed one wicket apiece, but their efforts could not prevent a narrow defeat.

What awaits Pakistan next?

Pakistan will have little time to recover as they are scheduled to face arch-rivals India in their second Group C fixture later on Friday.