India suffered their first setback in the high-octane clash against Pakistan at the Mission Road Ground, Mong Kok, as Robin Uthappa fell leg-before to Muhammad Shahzad after a blistering start.
Uthappa, who looked in sublime touch, smashing 28 runs off just 11 deliveries with 2 fours and 3 sixes, was trapped LBW by Shahzad in the third over. The ball pitched on middle and off, nipped in slightly after pitching, and struck Uthappa low on the pad as he attempted a cross-batted flick.
With the Decision Review System (DRS) not being used in the Hong Kong Sixes tournament, Uthappa had no choice but to walk back despite appearing slightly unhappy with the call.
At the time of his dismissal, India were cruising at 42/1 in 2.3 overs, with a healthy run rate of 16.8. The early fireworks from Uthappa and Bharath Chipli (8* off 5 balls) set a strong platform before Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Muhammad Shahzad and Abbas Afridi, looked to tighten the screws.
The quick tempo of the six-overs format leaves little room for error, and Uthappa’s wicket could prove crucial as Dinesh Karthik’s men aim to post a formidable total against their arch-rivals.
