Pakistan secured an 18-run victory over Oman in the Plate final of the Hong Kong International Sixes tournament on Sunday, powered by a sensational unbeaten 73 off just 16 balls from captain Abbas Afridi.
Playing at Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok, Pakistan posted an imposing 154 for four in their allotted six overs after Oman won the toss and elected to field.
Abbas delivered an extraordinary display of power-hitting, smashing 11 sixes and one four at a strike rate of 456.25 to lead Pakistan’s batting assault.
Abdul Samad provided valuable support with a blistering 32 off seven deliveries, including four sixes and two boundaries, before being caught and bowled by Muzahir Raza.
Ahmed Daniyal added an unbeaten 25 from just five balls, striking four sixes, while Muhammad Shahzad contributed 13 off four deliveries. Khawaja Nafay scored seven, while Irfan Khan was dismissed without scoring.
For Oman, Muzahir Raza claimed two wickets for 46 runs in his two overs, while Usman Ali took one wicket.
Chasing a formidable target of 155, Oman mounted an impressive counterattack but finished on 136 for four, falling 18 runs short.
Usman Ali struck an unbeaten 67 off 17 balls, including eight sixes and four fours, while Zohaib Amanat remained not out on 61 off 18 deliveries, hitting eight sixes and three boundaries.
Despite the explosive batting performances, Oman could not overcome Pakistan’s massive total.
Abbas Afridi was named Player of the Match for his match-winning innings, as Pakistan concluded their Hong Kong Sixes campaign with the Plate title.