The Pool A clash between Afghanistan and Nepal at Mong Kok’s Mission Road Ground in the Hong Kong Sixes delivered exactly what fans expected: a high-scoring, action-packed spectacle of six-a-side cricket on Friday. Among the standout moments was an electrifying performance by Nepal’s Rashid Khan, who etched his name in tournament history by pulling off a sensational hat-trick during Afghanistan’s innings.

Rashid Khan’s hat-trick stuns Afghanistan

nepal vs afg

Rashid’s remarkable achievement came in the fourth over, creating a dramatic turning point. He began by dismissing Sediqullah Pacha, who had looked dangerous with 13 runs off 5 balls, caught behind by wicketkeeper Sundeep Jora. On the very next delivery, Sharafuddin Ashraf misjudged a shot and was caught by Basir Ahamad. Rashid completed the hat-trick by removing Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai, caught in the outfield by Lokesh Bam, leaving Afghanistan reeling at 78/5 in just three balls. He finished with brilliant figures of 4 wickets for 27 runs in his 2 overs—a rare feat in the fast-paced format where bowlers are often at the mercy of aggressive batting.

Despite Rashid’s heroics, Afghanistan’s batting lineup fired early on. Janat blasted a rapid 35 off just 10 balls, including two boundaries and four sixes, while skipper Naib contributed 22 off 10 deliveries. Their explosive start propelled Afghanistan to 62 runs in under 3 overs, laying a strong foundation.

Farmanullah then anchored the innings at the back end, finishing unbeaten on 30 off 9 balls, guiding Afghanistan to a total of 112 in their allotted 6 overs. Chasing 113, Nepal responded with intent. Sundeep Jora played a captain’s knock, scoring a blistering 53 off 14 deliveries before retiring hurt. Lokesh Bam added 10 runs before falling to Farmanullah, who earned Player of the Match honours for his all-round performance, taking 1/19 in 2 overs.

Nepal ultimately finished at 95/2 after 6 overs. The chase faltered after Jora’s exit, and Afghanistan’s bowlers held their nerve in the final overs to secure a 17-run victory. The win consolidates Afghanistan’s position at the top of Pool A, blending explosive batting with disciplined bowling under pressure.