(Web Desk) - Pakistan suffered a disappointing start to their Hong Kong Sixes campaign, losing their opening Group C match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by one wicket in a thrilling encounter.
The match was played at Mission Road Ground in Hong Kong, where Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first.
Pakistan posted a total of 106 runs for the loss of three wickets in their allotted six overs.
Captain Abbas Afridi led the batting attack with a blistering 53 off just 13 deliveries, smashing one four and eight sixes. Abdul Samad also made a valuable contribution, scoring an unbeaten 39 off 15 balls.
In reply, the UAE chased down the 107-run target, scoring 109 for five in six overs to secure a dramatic one-wicket victory.
UAE captain Khalid Shah played a match-winning innings, hammering 71 runs off just 20 balls, including three fours and nine sixes. Zahid Ali also played a crucial role, contributing 22 runs from eight deliveries.
For Pakistan, Abbas Afridi, Abdul Samad and Irfan Khan claimed one wicket each.
The defeat marks a disappointing opening for defending champions Pakistan, who will now look to bounce back in their next Group C fixture against arch-rivals India.
Pakistan are scheduled to face India today at 11:00 am in their next match of the tournament.