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Journalism of Courage
Pakistan clinched a record sixth Hong Kong Sixes title over the weekend, capping off a dominant campaign at Mong Kok’s Mission Road Ground. After edging past Australia by just one run in a tense semifinal, the men in green cruised to a 43-run victory over Kuwait in the final to lift the trophy. Barring a lone defeat to India in the group stage, Pakistan looked in control throughout the tournament.
Interestingly, Pandya himself had repeated the same pose earlier this year after India’s Champions Trophy triumph in Dubai. Following Pakistan’s win, Shahzad decided to do his own version of the image and shared it on social media, sparking a flood of reactions online.
While some fans found it hilarious, others took playful digs. One comment read, “Hardik Pandya from Meesho,” while another joked, “Trophy to copy karke dikhao.”
Still, a few fans appreciated the nod to Pandya’s celebration. One wrote, “Fast Bowling All rounder & his Idol is Hardik Pandya. I wish yeh larka future me Pandya jesa great All Rounder banay Pakistan ke liye.”
Pandya had first struck that signature pose after dismissing Shadab Khan in India’s narrow win over Pakistan during the 2024 T20 World Cup. The image went on to become symbolic of India’s long-awaited ICC triumph, and now, in a twist of sporting irony, Shahzad has borrowed the same gesture after Pakistan’s own success.
For now, the young all-rounder, who has represented Pakistan at the U-19 level, continues to wait for his call-up to the senior side.
