 "Indian cricket team will take part in Hong Kong Sixes for the first time since 2012. Image: AP/Hong Kong Sixes on X")
The Indian cricket team is set for a return to Hong Kong Sixes, the unique cricketing tournament that makes a comeback after a seven-year gap. The Hong Kong Sixes, which is hosted by Cricket Hong Kong, was once a regular feature in the cricket calendar but has not been hosted since 2017. The Indian cricket team has not played in the tournament since 2012 and is set for a return to Hong Kong Sixes after a 12-year gap.
The Hong Kong Sixes 2024 will be played from 1 to 3 November at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Kau Pui Lung, Kowloon, Hong Kong. Apart from India, 11 more teams including Pakistan, Australia, and England will be taking part in HK6, which is a six-a-side cricket 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 said on X while announcing India’s participation.
Before the tournament gets underway, here’s all you need to know about Hong Kong Sixes:
When did it start?
The Hong Kong Sixes started in 1992 and was held every year till 1997. After a four-year gap, it returned in 2001 and was held every year till 2012. It was held once again in 2017 without India and now makes a return after seven years.
What are some big names who have played in Hong Kong Sixes?
Sachin Tendulkar, Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Anil Kumble, Sanath Jayasuriya, MS Dhoni, and Glenn Maxwell are some of the big names who have already played in Hong Kong Sixes.
Who are the Hong Kong Sixes winners in past?
India won the Hong Kong Sixes in 2005. Pakistan, England, and South Africa are the most successful teams in Hong Kong Sixes with five trophies each.
Which teams will participate in Hong Kong Sixes 2024?
Apart from India, Pakistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, Hong Kong, Nepal, New Zealand, Oman, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates will take part in Hong Kong Sixes 2024.
Hong Kong Sixes Format:
1. Each match is contested between two teams of six players, with a limit of five overs per side. However, in the final match, teams will bowl 5 overs consisting of 8 balls each, instead of the usual 6 balls per over in earlier matches.
2. All fielders, apart from the wicketkeeper, must bowl one over. Additionally, wides and no-balls result in two penalty runs.
3. If a team loses five wickets before completing their 5 overs, the final batter will continue batting with the fifth player serving as a runner. The not-out batter must face every delivery, and the innings concludes when he is dismissed.
4. Batters are required to retire upon reaching 31 runs but may return to the crease if all other batsmen have either been dismissed or have retired.
5. Two points are awarded for a victory.
Hong Kong Sixes 2024 Tickets:
The matches on all three days of the tournament will take place between 8:30 am to 6 pm local time.
Ticket Prices:
1 Nov 2024 (Fri): $150
2 Nov 2024 (Sat): $250
3 Nov 2024 (Sun): $350
3 Day Ticket (1-3 Nov 2024): $580
The sale of tickets started on 2 October.