Afghanistan secured a spectacular victory over Australia to claim the Hong Kong Sixes 2026 title, concluding a high-energy campaign at the Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok. The fast-paced six-a-side tournament lived up to its reputation for explosive batting and dramatic finishes, with Afghanistan and Australia proving to be the dominant forces of the competition.
Under the leadership of Gulbadin Naib, the Afghan squad demonstrated exceptional aggression and composure under pressure. Australia entered the final in stellar form, having dominated their earlier fixtures to set up a heavyweight clash for the trophy.
Australia Sets a Formidable Target
After winning the toss, Australia elected to bat first. In a format where every delivery counts, the Australian lineup launched an immediate assault to maximize their six-over window.
Australia posted a competitive 115/4, challenging Afghanistan to score 116 runs for the championship. Opening batter Max Bryant led the charge with a blistering 44 runs from just 14 balls, while Alex Ross remained unbeaten on 29 from 10 deliveries. Nick Hobson added further momentum with a quickfire 23 off 8 balls.
Despite the imposing total, Afghanistan approached the chase with confidence, relying on the aggressive scoring form they had maintained throughout the tournament.
Mir and Safi Power Afghanistan to Glory
Afghanistan’s pursuit was defined by fearless strokeplay. Although they suffered two early wickets, Imran Mir and Farmanullah Safi stabilized the innings with a devastating partnership.
Mir was the standout performer, remaining unbeaten on 53 runs from only 14 balls. His innings featured seven sixes and two fours, showcasing a masterclass in boundary hitting.
Safi complemented Mir perfectly, smashing 26 runs from seven deliveries, including four sixes. Their rapid synergy brought Afghanistan within striking distance of the title.
Captain Naib contributed 17 runs off six balls before falling to Chris Green, but the momentum remained firmly with the Afghans.
A moment of gratitude after a moment of glory. #TurnItUpToSix #HongKongSixes #M品牌活動#大型體育活動事務委員會#政府資助計劃 #MMarkEvents #MajorSportsEventsCommittee pic.twitter.com/7VMMO1sCdG
— Cricket Hong Kong, China (@CricketHK) November 1, 2026
The onslaught continued as Mir and Safi accelerated the scoring rate to an extraordinary level, allowing Afghanistan to complete the chase in just 5.1 overs.
Afghanistan pulls off a sensational chase to win the Grand Final by 4 wickets #TurnItUpToSix #HongKongSixes #M品牌活動#大型體育活動事務委員會#政府資助計劃 #MMarkEvents #MajorSportsEventsCommittee pic.twitter.com/kINbc997tZ
— Cricket Hong Kong, China (@CricketHK) November 1, 2026
Also Read
- McDavid Targets 15-Game Streak Milestone as Oilers Seek Road Dominance Against Rangers
- Miyu Yamashita Claims LPGA Maybank Championship Title by Two Strokes Over Liu
- Man United Target Premier League Striker Jean-Philippe Mateta in January Transfer Push
- Canelo Alvarez Regains World Title, Calls for Crawford Rematch After Riyadh Victory

