Afghanistan delivered an outstanding all-round performance to defeat Australia in a thrilling final and lift the Hong Kong International Sixes 2026 championship trophy.
In the final, Afghanistan successfully chased down Australia’s target of 115 runs in the last over, losing just two wickets to secure a convincing four-wicket victory and claim the title.
Imran Mir led Afghanistan’s chase with a magnificent unbeaten 53 off just 14 deliveries. Farmanullah Safi remained unbeaten on 26 off seven balls, while captain Gulbadin Naib contributed 17 off six deliveries and Karim Janat added 13 off just five balls to guide Afghanistan to the championship.
Afghanistan began their campaign with victories over South Africa and Oman in the group stage, finishing at the top of their group to qualify for the semi-finals. Afghanistan then defeated Scotland in the semi-final to book their place in the title clash, before overcoming Australia to be crowned champions.
Afghanistan’s players delivered impressive individual performances throughout the tournament. Farmanullah Safi was named Player of the Match for his outstanding batting display of scoring 38\ off just 14 balls against South Africa. In the second match, Sediqullah Pacha smashed an unbeaten 45 off just 10 deliveries to earn the award. Captain Gulbadin Naib (51\ off 16 balls) also produced a brilliant half-century in the semi-final and was named Player of the Match.
Meanwhile, Karim Janat and Nangyal Kharoti made valuable contributions throughout the competition, playing important roles in Afghanistan’s successful title campaign.
Notably, this was only Afghanistan’s second appearance in the Hong Kong Sixes, and the team have now lifted the championship trophy in just their second participation in the tournament.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board congratulates the players, team management and all Afghan cricket fans on this remarkable achievement.
