The UAE national cricket team booked its place in the Cup semi-finals of the Hong Kong Sixes 2026 on Saturday after completing a perfect run through Group C, beating both India and Pakistan.

Chasing a modest target after India were restricted to 94-6 in their six overs, UAE captain Khalid Shah blazed to 52 off just 14 balls, while opening partner Ansh Tandon added an unbeaten 39 off 12 deliveries. The pair's explosive opening stand sealed a six-wicket win with overs to spare.

It followed an even tighter finish against Pakistan in the UAE's opening fixture, where Shah's remarkable 71 off 20 balls powered the side to a one-wicket win while chasing 107 in six overs.

The Hong Kong Sixes format pits 12 teams across four groups, with group winners advancing straight to the Cup semi-finals. Having topped Group C with two wins from two, the UAE will now face Australia in Saturday's semi-final, with the tournament final scheduled for Sunday.

Shah's standout form across both matches has made him one of the players to watch in this year's tournament. The results mark a significant lift for UAE cricket as the side continues working to establish itself among the region's stronger teams, offering a timely boost of confidence ahead of the knockout stage.