The stage is set for a high-octane clash in the second quarterfinal of the Hong Kong Sixes 2025, as Pakistan take on South Africa at the Mission Road Ground in Mong Kok. Both teams enter the knockout stage with identical 1-1 win-loss records from the group phase, having each suffered defeats to Test-playing nations.
Pakistan captain Abbas Afridi won the toss and opted to field first, putting South Africa in to bat under bright afternoon skies. The opening pair of Jorich Van Schalkwyk and Abdullah Bayoumy walked out to the middle, with Shahid Aziz taking the new ball for Pakistan.
The South African lineup features skipper Jordan Morris, wicketkeeper Kashief Joseph, Blake Simpson, and Ethan John Cunningham, alongside the openers. Pakistan’s playing six includes Khawaja Nafay behind the stumps, Muhammad Shahzad, Abdul Samad, Abbas Afridi, Shahid Aziz, and Maaz Sadaqat.
With both sides eyeing a semifinal berth, this encounter promises an explosive brand of cricket characteristic of the Sixes format — where big hitting, quick wickets, and razor-sharp fielding can turn the tide in a matter of balls.
