In the world of T20 cricket, where all eyes are on this shorter format, there was an even shorter format that captured attention before T20 took off. Now, this extremely short format is making a comeback as the Hong Kong Cricket Sixes tournament, which consists of uniquely exciting rules, is back. This tournament, where greats like MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, Sanath Jayasuriya, and Shane Warne have all played, highlights its popularity. Came in 1992 and running until the 2017 edition, the tournament is returning after a long seven-year break. But, what is this tournament all about? See all the details about this exciting and unique event.
What is Hong Kong Cricket Sixes
As mentioned, the tournament started in 1992 and continued until the 2017 edition, organized by Cricket Hong Kong, having a six-a-side format, which means teams play with six players. It’s a 5-over competition, initially, there were 8 teams participating, but in 2011, the team expansion occurred, and since then, 12 teams have participated in this edition, India, Australia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, England, Hong Kong, Nepal, New Zealand, Oman, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the UAE. Looking at the tournament’s history, South Africa and England have each won it five times, whereas Pakistan has won it four times, and India has won it once.
Hong Kong Sixes rules
Now speaking about the rules, matches are contested between two teams of six players, with each game allowing a maximum of five overs per side. In the final match, however, each team will bowl 5 overs, with each over comprising 8 balls, an increase from the standard 6 balls used in regular matches.
All members of the fielding team, with the exception of the wicket-keeper, are required to bowl one over. Wides and no-balls will be penalized with two runs each.
If five wickets fall before the completion of the allotted 5 overs, the last batter will continue to bat, supported by the fifth batter acting as a runner. The not-out batter will remain on strike throughout, and the innings will end once he is dismissed.
Batters must retire upon reaching 31 runs but can return to the crease once all other batsmen have been dismissed or have retired.
Hong Kong Sixes winner list
| Team | Tournaments Won | Years Won |
| England | 5 | 1993, 1994, 2003, 2004, 2008 |
| South Africa | 5 | 1995, 2006, 2009, 2012, 2017 |
| Pakistan | 4 | 1992, 1997,2001, 2002 |
| Sri Lanka | 1 | 2007 |
| Australia | 1 | 2010 |
| West Indies | 1 | 1996 |
| India | 1 | 2005 |
Hong Kong Sixes Venue
This time the tournament will be held at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Hong Kong, running from November 1 to November 3.
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