Mariko Hill takes five wickets as Hong Kong clinch Women’s T20I cricket trophy in last-over thriller
- Player of the Match Hill hails ‘fairy tale ending’ as hosts chase down Tanzania in a dramatic final on Sunday
- ‘Half of us in the team pretty much grew up playing here at Hong Kong Cricket Club,’ she says as coach lauds ‘good battle’
Hong Kong chased down a target of 86 in the last over against Tanzania in a dramatic final to clinch the Hong Kong Women’s T20I Trophy.
Needing 31 to win off the last 43 balls, the home side looked to be cruising toward their target until Natasha Miles smashed Sophia Jerome into the hands of Monica Pascal at cover to get dismissed for 27.
More tight bowling from a spirited Tanzania pushed the required rate close to five runs an over before Maryam Bibi slogged Sheila Kizito for four, beating the outstretched hands of a diving Hudaa Omary at mid on.
Tied down by Tanzania’s constant pressure, Emma Lai tried to break free, only managing to sky Aisha Mohamed straight into the hands of Saum Mtae in the circle.
With 16 required off the last three overs, Mohamed dropped Bibi at long on, giving her a second life and allowing her to get through for a second run. Bibi was again put down, this time at mid wicket, and once again crossed through for a second run in a seven-run penultimate over, which also included two wide balls.
With three required off the last six balls and new batter Elysa Hubbard at the crease, Tanzania were still in with a chance. Hubbard, however, dashed the visitors’ hopes, sweeping Jerome into deep square leg for four to seal a dramatic win as Hong Kong’s dugout and a rapturous home crowd stormed the field.
