Afghanistan Create History, Win Hong Kong Sixes 2026: Afghanistan have made history by winning the Hong Kong Sixes for the first time in the tournament’s 34-year history. They arrived at Mission Road Ground last Friday without being considered favourites, but three days later, they walked away as champions after an unbeaten campaign.
Led by Gulbadin Naib, Afghanistan defeated Australia by four wickets in Sunday’s Cup final, chasing down a target of 116 in just 5.1 overs. The star of the final was Imran Mir, who played a stunning innings of 53 runs off just 14 balls.
With this victory, Afghanistan became the eighth team to win the Hong Kong Sixes title. Their triumph also ended, as Pakistan entered the tournament as defending champions.
The 22nd edition of the tournament featured 12 teams and took place from October 30 to November 1. The teams were divided into four groups, with the Cup, Plate and Bowl competitions deciding their final positions. India, led by Krunal Pandya, finished in 11th place.
In the final, Australia posted 115 runs in their six overs. Max Bryant was their top scorer with 44 runs off 14 balls, while Alex Ross remained unbeaten on 29 from just 10 deliveries. Nangeyalia Kharoti was the only Afghan bowler to take a wicket.
Afghanistan’s chase did not get off to a good start, as Karim Janat and captain Gulbadin Naib lost their wickets early. However, Imran Mir completely changed the game with his powerful hitting. He smashed seven sixes and two fours to score 53 off 14 balls.
Farmanullah Safi also played an important role, scoring an unbeaten 26 off just seven balls, including four sixes. Together, the two batters took Afghanistan to 119 for 2, completing the chase with five balls remaining. Imran Mir was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.
Afghanistan’s journey to the title was equally impressive. They started by chasing down 108 runs against South Africa to win their opening Group D match by three wickets. They then defeated Oman before continuing their strong form in the semi-final against Scotland.
Batting first, Afghanistan scored 121 runs and then restricted Scotland to 100, securing a 21-run victory and a place in the final.
In the end, Afghanistan did more than just win a tournament. They proved their strength, confidence and ability to perform under pressure. What started as an unexpected campaign turned into a historic achievement, as Gulbadin Naib’s team lifted their first-ever Hong Kong Sixes trophy without losing a single match.
