England disappoint at the Hong Kong Sixes

Kent Player of the Season Darren Stevens failed to fire the English squad to success in this year“s Hong Kong Sixes, as the five-time winners lost all three games in the 2010 competition – played at Kowloon Cricket Club.

The big-hitting all-rounder took his place in the side alongside the likes of fellow one-day specialists Peter Trego, formerly of Kent, Surrey skipper Rory Hamilton-Brown and former England international Rikki Clarke, but unfortunately they were knocked out at the group stages.

In the tournament curtain-raiser on day one, England were demolished by the hosts Hong Kong by nine-wickets. Stevens contributed 14 off just seven balls with the bat, as England posted 60 for three from their four overs. A slick Hong Kong side then romped to victory inside three overs, with Stevens conceding 23 off his solitary over.

On day two, England were faced with even stiffer opponents when they took on holders South Africa and Australia – the outcome was the same. Firstly the Aussies claimed victory by seven wickets in a pre-Ashes warm-up as they chased down a very modest forty with consummate ease. Stevens made six, opening the innings. Their participation in this year“s competition was then completely extinguished by the Proteas as they again brushed aside England; this time led by Stevens, by eight wickets, chasing down 55.

Despite England not being involved, a thrilling final then ensued at Kowloon as Australia claimed a stunning six wicket win over Pakistan. The run fest started with Pakistan smashing 132 off their five overs – Ahmed Shehzad bludgeoned 92 off just 28 balls. The Aussies pulled off an unlikely win when the final equation came down to needing 46 off the final eight-ball over. Pakistani bowler Imran Nazir had a nightmare as Australia took the title with a ball to spare with Ryan Carters“ 31, off eight balls, proving pivotal as the weekend ended in dramatic fashion.

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