In a thrilling finale to the 2024 Hong Kong Super Sixes tournament, Sri Lanka emerged victorious over Pakistan by three wickets, claiming the title for the second time since 2007. The high-stakes match, held at Mong Kok Stadium, saw Sri Lanka chase down Pakistan’s modest target of 73 runs, finishing with one over to spare.
Match Summary and Key Performances
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka chose to bowl first, a decision that quickly paid dividends as Pakistan struggled to establish their innings. Pakistan lost two early wickets in the opening overs, placing them on the back foot from the outset.
Despite the early setbacks, Mohammad Ikhlaq provided a shining moment for Pakistan, scoring an impressive 48 runs off 20 balls, a performance that kept Pakistan’s hopes alive. However, his efforts alone weren’t enough, as the rest of the lineup failed to find their rhythm. Captain Faheem Ashraf contributed a quick 13 runs, while other key players like Asif Ali, Aamer Yamin, and Hussain Talat struggled, with Pakistan ultimately bowled out for 72 runs in just 5.2 overs.
Hananjaya Lakshan and Tharindu Rathnayake led Sri Lanka’s bowling, each taking two wickets to maintain constant pressure on Pakistan’s lineup.
Sri Lanka’s Chase: A Calm Yet Commanding Victory
Sri Lanka’s chase began cautiously, with opening batsman Sandun Weerakkody delivering a stellar performance, scoring 34 runs off 13 balls, including four sixes. His efforts, combined with captain Lahiru Madushanka’s quick 19 runs, put Sri Lanka on a steady path toward the target.
The match saw some nail-biting moments when Sri Lanka faced a mini-collapse, but Tharindu Rathnayake’s composure under pressure sealed the victory with a six and a four, ensuring Sri Lanka reached the 73-run target with an over to spare. Faheem Ashraf took two wickets in the chase, but his efforts were not enough to prevent Pakistan’s defeat.
Path to the Final: Semi-Final Highlights
Earlier, Pakistan reached the final after a thrilling semi-final against Australia. Chasing Australia’s competitive score of 107, Pakistan’s batting lineup, led by Asif Ali and Mohammad Ikhlaq, put on an explosive display. Their efforts, along with contributions from Ashraf and Yamin, saw Pakistan cross the line, setting up the eagerly awaited final clash with Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s journey to the final also had its dramatic moments. In their semi-final match against Bangladesh, Weerakkody once again showcased his prowess, scoring a crucial 50. Tharindu Rathnayake’s four-wicket haul restricted Bangladesh to 103, setting up a close win for Sri Lanka, who clinched victory off the penultimate ball.
A Well-Deserved Victory and Sri Lanka’s Dominance in Super Sixes
The win marks Sri Lanka’s second Hong Kong Super Sixes title, reflecting their dominance in this unique short-format competition. Their impressive all-around performance throughout the tournament, especially the heroics of Weerakkody and Rathnayake, capped off a memorable championship run. For Pakistan, the result was a disappointment after their remarkable campaign, though they put up a valiant fight.
The 2024 Hong Kong Super Sixes will be remembered as a showcase of thrilling cricket action, with Sri Lanka’s title win adding a remarkable chapter to the tournament’s history.
