Defending champions Pakistan have been knocked out of the main Cup at the Hong Kong Sixes 2026 after finishing second in Group C, ending their bid for a seventh title under captain Abbas Afridi.
Only the group winners move into the main Cup semi-finals. Runners-up go into the Plate semi-finals, and third-placed sides into the Bowl. An early loss to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) left Pakistan unable to top the table despite a strong win over India.
How Group C unfolded
Pakistan’s campaign began with a setback on Friday against the UAE. Batting first, they posted 106 for 3 in six overs, with Afridi hitting 53. The UAE chased the 107-run target on the final ball and won by one wicket.
In their second group game, Pakistan restricted India to 88 for 5, then chased the target in 3.5 overs, finishing on 91 for 2. Khawaja Nafay scored 41 and Afridi added a quick 35.
The UAE later beat India to stay unbeaten and finish top of Group C. India made 95; the Emirates chased it without losing a wicket in four overs. That result locked Pakistan into second place and ended their path to the main Cup semi-finals.
What comes next for Pakistan
With the UAE taking Group C’s only main Cup semi-final place, Pakistan move into the Plate competition. They are due to play hosts Hong Kong in the second Plate semi-final on Saturday.
The result closes the defending champions’ route to another main trophy at this year’s Hong Kong Sixes, even after their emphatic win over India. Their remaining path is through the Plate bracket.
Timeline: what has happened so far
- 29 October 2026: Abbas Afridi is photographed with the Hong Kong Sixes trophy in Hong Kong.
- Friday: Pakistan lose to the UAE by one wicket after posting 106 for 3; Afridi scores 53.
- Group stage: Pakistan beat India, chasing 91 for 2 in 3.5 overs after India make 88 for 5.
- Group stage: UAE beat India without losing a wicket in four overs after India post 95, topping Group C unbeaten.
- Saturday: Pakistan face Hong Kong in the second Plate semi-final.
Aasan alfaaz mein
Pakistan Hong Kong Sixes ke main Cup se bahar ho gaya hai. UAE se pehla match haarne ki wajah se woh Group C mein number two reh gaye. India ko jeetne ke baad bhi main trophy ka raasta band ho gaya. Ab woh Plate semi-final mein Hong Kong se khelenge.
