The Indian cricket team is poised to return to the Hong Kong Sixes, a unique cricket tournament making a comeback after a seven-year hiatus. Hosted by Cricket Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Sixes was once a staple in the cricket calendar but has not been held since 2017. India last participated in the tournament in 2012, marking a 12-year absence from this exciting event.
The Hong Kong Sixes 2024 is scheduled to take place from November 1 to 3 at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Kau Pui Lung, Kowloon, Hong Kong. In addition to India, eleven other teams, including Pakistan, Australia, and England, will compete in this six-a-side tournament.
“Team India is gearing up to smash it out of the park at HK6. Prepare for explosive power hitting and a storm of sixes that will electrify the crowd,” Cricket Hong Kong announced on X, highlighting India’s participation.
Everything You Need to Know About the Hong Kong Sixes:
When Did It Start?
The Hong Kong Sixes began in 1992 and ran annually until 1997. After a four-year hiatus, it returned in 2001, continuing until 2012. The tournament was last held in 2017, and now, after a seven-year break, it is making its comeback.
Notable Players Who Have Competed:
The tournament has seen legendary cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Anil Kumble, Sanath Jayasuriya, MS Dhoni, and Glenn Maxwell grace the field.
Past Winners:
India claimed the title in 2005. Pakistan, England, and South Africa are the most successful teams in the tournament’s history, each having won five trophies.
Participating Teams for Hong Kong Sixes 2024:
In addition to India, the tournament will feature teams from Pakistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, Hong Kong, Nepal, New Zealand, Oman, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates.
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Hong Kong Sixes Format:
- Each match consists of two teams of six players, with a maximum of five overs per side. In the final match, teams will bowl 5 overs, each containing 8 balls, rather than the usual 6.
- All fielders, excluding the wicketkeeper, must bowl one over. Additionally, any wides or no-balls will incur a penalty of two runs.
- If a team loses five wickets before completing their 5 overs, the last batter will continue while the fifth player acts as a runner. The not-out batter must face all deliveries, and the innings ends when he is dismissed.
- Batters must retire upon reaching 31 runs but can return to the crease if all other batsmen are either out or have retired.
- Teams earn two points for a win.
Ticket Information for Hong Kong Sixes 2024:
Matches will take place each day from 8:30 AM to 6 PM local time.
Ticket Prices:
- November 1, 2024 (Friday): $150
- November 2, 2024 (Saturday): $250
- November 3, 2024 (Sunday): $350
- 3-Day Ticket (November 1-3, 2024): $580
Ticket sales commenced on October 2.