https://www.scmp.com/rss/324045/feed The Hong Kong T20 Blitz is a cricket competition in Hong Kong that was first played in 2016. The inaugural event consisted of four franchised teams playing in a Twenty20 format. Kowloon Cantons and Woodworm Island Warriors were joint winners of the inaugural Hong Kong T20 Blitz after rain washed out finals day. The 2017 edition will take place between 8-12 March and will feature five teams - Kowloon Cantons, Hung Hom JD Jaguars, Galaxy Gladiators Lantau, Hong Kong Island United and City Kai Tak... en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Franchise owners for the Hong Kong T20 Blitz expressed dismay on Monday over Cricket Hong Kong’s “eerie silence”, with the governing body indicating the 2019 tournament may be cancelled because of fixture clashes. City Kaitak owner Sushil Kumar and Hung Hom JD Jaguars’ Susan Lulla said they had yet to hear from CHK about the 2019 event, which was scheduled for October as part of the grand week-long festival of international cricket also involving the Hong Kong Sixes. However, while posters at... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3019628/hong-kong-t20-blitz-under-threat-franchise-owners-hit-out?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3019628/hong-kong-t20-blitz-under-threat-franchise-owners-hit-out?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 22 Jul 2019 11:20:12 +0000 Hong Kong batsman Nizakat Khan will play alongside Australia’s banned ex-captain Steve Smith when they line up for the Toronto Nationals in June’s Global T20 Canada league. Nizakat and Hong Kong captain Babar Hayat have secured franchises for the world’s latest T20 tournament, although the latter is hoping to recover in time from an injury after having the index finger of his left hand caught in a lift. Smith and teammates David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were suspended from the Australia team... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2149303/steve-smith-and-nizakat-khan-australias-banned-ex-captain-and-hong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2149303/steve-smith-and-nizakat-khan-australias-banned-ex-captain-and-hong?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 05 Jun 2018 05:17:54 +0000 They were nine ordinary women with an entrepreneurial spirit and a fierce passion for cricket – so it was appropriate that their team would be called Kowloon (Nine Dragons in Cantonese) Cantons. After three tournaments and two titles, the most successful franchise in Hong Kong T20 Blitz history has grown beyond the financial grasps of the nine women who reached into their own pockets to bring the team to life in 2016. Cantons yesterday announced that the franchise is to be sold to Dining... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2134493/sake-team-kowloon-cantons-nine-women-owners-sell-hk-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2134493/sake-team-kowloon-cantons-nine-women-owners-sell-hk-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Feb 2018 22:00:00 +0000 Head coach Simon Cook has called upon his players to take their Blitz form to southern Africa as Hong Kong face one of their toughest and most important assignments – attempt to qualify for the 2019 ICC World Cup. Cook and a 15-strong playing squad left Hong Kong on Tuesday for South Africa, where they will play several friendly matches before the 2019 ICC World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe, starting on March 6. After the excitement of the #HKT20BLitz the Hong Kong squad is preparing to depart... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2133336/how-blitz-can-boost-hong-kong-their-bid-qualify-icc-world-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2133336/how-blitz-can-boost-hong-kong-their-bid-qualify-icc-world-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 14 Feb 2018 06:30:30 +0000 Man of the match Nizakat Khan hopes the performances of local players at the Hong Kong T20 Blitz will open the doors for Hong Kong cricketers to take part in major Twenty20 tournaments around the world. Nizakat scored 93 in the final on Sunday to help Hung Hom JD Jaguars win the third edition of the tournament at Mission Road, beating Galaxy Gladiators Lantau by six runs in the final. Nizakat, Kowloon Cantons captain Babar Hayat, City Kaitak’s Anshuman Rath and Hong Kong players such as Kyle... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132992/hong-kong-players-ready-global-t20-leagues-says-blitz-star-nizakat?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132992/hong-kong-players-ready-global-t20-leagues-says-blitz-star-nizakat?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Feb 2018 05:29:10 +0000 There was a point during the Galaxy Gladiators Lantau’s pursuit of the 201 target they were set in the final of the Hong Kong T20 Blitz on Sunday when it looked like Kumar Sangakkara was going to grab the headlines. But a batting masterclass from the Sri Lankan great was overshadowed in the end by Darren Sammy’s match-clinching spell with the ball as the Hung Hom JD Jaguars claimed the 2018 title after winning by six runs. Hong Kong’s own Nizakat Khan played a huge role, too, contributing 93 to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132913/big-hitting-hung-hom-jd-jaguars-beat-galaxy-gladiators-lantau-hong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132913/big-hitting-hung-hom-jd-jaguars-beat-galaxy-gladiators-lantau-hong?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Feb 2018 09:59:52 +0000 He’s a gangsta rap-loving criminal law professor and his “gunman” celebrations are now famous at Mission Road after Dan Pascoe was gifted man of the match honours in Galaxy Gladiators Lantau’s five-wicket victory over City Kaitak, putting them into Sunday’s final of the Hong Kong T20 Blitz. In the final, they will face Hung Hom JD Jaguars, who beat winless Hong Kong JD Jaguars by 57 runs in the second match. City University lecturer Pascoe took two wickets for 25 runs in his four overs,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132836/gangsta-rap-made-me-do-it-law-lecturer-dan-pascoe-guns-down-kaitak?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132836/gangsta-rap-made-me-do-it-law-lecturer-dan-pascoe-guns-down-kaitak?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Feb 2018 06:49:05 +0000 Teenager Haroon Arshad was given the ball for the final over against a team who needed 15 runs for victory and were averaging much more than that in the previous few overs. The pressure on the Hong Kong player was intense. Defeat would effectively end Galaxy Gladiators Lantau’s hopes and he was being relied upon by skipper Kumar Sangakkara to ensure their opponents Hung Hom JD Jaguars would fail in their bid to chase a record 229. The 18-year-old repaid the faith put in him by bowling a tight... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2132774/hong-kong-teen-haroon-arshad-hero-gladiators-blitz-victory-over-jaguars?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2132774/hong-kong-teen-haroon-arshad-hero-gladiators-blitz-victory-over-jaguars?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Feb 2018 12:28:40 +0000 Sri Lanka great Kumar Sangakkara believes the quality of Hong Kong players will be a key factor in deciding who wins the Hong Kong T20 Blitz after his team picked up their first victory of the tournament on Thursday. Sangakkara scored 35 runs as Galaxy Gladiators Lantau beat winless Hong Kong Island United by eight wickets to revive their title hopes. In an earlier match, Hung Hom JD Jaguars beat defending champions Kowloon Cantons by six wickets with an impressive batting performance. It was a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132609/watch-out-local-players-says-kumar-sangakkara-after-hong-kong-t20?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132609/watch-out-local-players-says-kumar-sangakkara-after-hong-kong-t20?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Feb 2018 12:26:34 +0000 Kyle Coetzer had always wanted to score a century in Hong Kong, especially after he fell 13 runs short in last year’s Hong Kong T20 Blitz. The Scot put on a man-of-the-match performance as City Kaitak bounced back from their defeat on Tuesday to beat Hong Kong Island United by 26 runs at Mission Road on Wednesday. In the second match of the day, defending champions Kowloon Cantons defeated Galaxy Gladiators Lantau by 31 runs thanks to a strong performance in the field. The 33-year-old... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2132456/hong-kong-century-treasure-kyle-coetzer-leads-city-kaitak-reigning-champs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2132456/hong-kong-century-treasure-kyle-coetzer-leads-city-kaitak-reigning-champs?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Feb 2018 12:18:44 +0000 Cali-Mex Hung Hom JD Jaguars won the opening match of the Hong Kong T20 Blitz on Tuesday, beating last year's runners-up City Kaitak by six wickets – but for players from both sides, it was just good to be back playing in a tournament that has grown in stature over the past year. West Indies’ Rayad Emrit, listed as captain of Kaitak for the game, said the Hong Kong tournament has been on the lips of players around the world. “Definitely a lot of guys in the Caribbean talk about coming here to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132300/theyre-all-talking-about-hong-kong-t20-blitz-players-glad-be-back?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132300/theyre-all-talking-about-hong-kong-t20-blitz-players-glad-be-back?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Feb 2018 11:46:10 +0000 Hong Kong T20 Blitz live https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132215/live-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-one?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132215/live-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-one?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Feb 2018 05:30:30 +0000 Professional services firm and auditors KPMG has signed on to sponsor the 2018 Hong Kong T20 Blitz on the eve of the tournament, which faces a major test of its popularity this week when the third edition starts today at Mission Road. With a record number of television broadcast deals delivered by partner Sunset+Vine, organisers are now hoping that fans will either tune in wherever they are around the world or flock to Mong Kok to watch the action live. “I think this year’s tournament always was... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132106/hong-kong-t20-blitz-faces-biggest-test-global-popularity-kpmg-signs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2132106/hong-kong-t20-blitz-faces-biggest-test-global-popularity-kpmg-signs?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Feb 2018 10:30:26 +0000 Ahsan Abbasi arrived in Hong Kong three years ago hoping that he would one day be able to represent the city at the highest level. This week, his dream came true when he was named in Hong Kong’s 14-man squad for the ICC World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe in March. The 23-year-old all-rounder from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, will feature in an experienced Hong Kong squad who face a massive task to qualify for the 2019 World Cup, taking on test teams Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, Scotland and another... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2131747/ahsan-abbasi-fulfils-dream-represent-hong-kong-icc-world-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2131747/ahsan-abbasi-fulfils-dream-represent-hong-kong-icc-world-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 Feb 2018 08:41:54 +0000 The owners of the Blitz franchise that signed Nepali teen spin sensation Sandeep Lamichhane in 2016 are hoping Hong Kong players can follow in his footsteps and one day play in the Indian Premier League. In May, 2016, 15-year-old Sandeep Lamichhane had his international T20 breakthrough when he lined up for Kowloon Cantons in the inaugural Hong Kong T20 Blitz. Two years later, Lamichhane has come of age after being picked by Delhi Daredevils for the IPL – the world’s most prestigious and richest... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2131072/can-hong-kong-players-make-it-ipl-ex-kowloon-cantons-spinner-sandeep?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2131072/can-hong-kong-players-make-it-ipl-ex-kowloon-cantons-spinner-sandeep?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 30 Jan 2018 00:02:01 +0000 The Hong Kong T20 Blitz will boast a million-dollar man after all, with rising all-rounder Jofra Archer snapped up by the Indian Premier League (IPL) for more than US$1 million in last week’s initial draft. The 22-year-old has lit up the T20 world with his performances in Australia’s Big Bash League and he was the subject of fierce bidding before the Rajasthan Royals finally claimed him for US$1.125 million for the next edition of the IPL. Sussex all-rounder Archer, who grew up in Barbados but... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2130925/us1125-million-galaxy-gladiators-lantaus-jofra-archer-ipl-auction?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2130925/us1125-million-galaxy-gladiators-lantaus-jofra-archer-ipl-auction?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 28 Jan 2018 09:51:11 +0000 West Indies’ World Cup-winning captain Darren Sammy has urged Hong Kong cricketers to learn as much as they can from their overseas teammates taking part in next month’s Hong Kong T20 Blitz at Mission Road. Sammy, who will return for Cali-Mex Hung Hom JD Jaguars at the February 6-11 tournament, helped the Jaguars to third place in last year's tournament after two victories from their four matches. “It was a good tournament and an exciting one and the reason I am in Hong Kong is because I feel... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2130735/learn-best-west-indies-great-darren-sammy-tells-local-players-make?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2130735/learn-best-west-indies-great-darren-sammy-tells-local-players-make?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 26 Jan 2018 08:46:01 +0000 Former Australian captain Michael Clarke was the sole overseas participant at the inaugural Hong Kong T20 Blitz in 2016. Just two years later, there are 27 foreign recruits as more world-class cricketers look to compete in one of the globe’s fastest-growing T20 tournaments. Max Abbott, head of major tournaments at Cricket Hong Kong, was one of the pioneers who put together the 2016 event inside two months and he admitted he was surprised by how rapidly the Blitz has established itself. Two... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2130362/sometimes-you-pinch-yourself-how-hong-kong-t20-blitz-went-one?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2130362/sometimes-you-pinch-yourself-how-hong-kong-t20-blitz-went-one?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 24 Jan 2018 08:07:28 +0000 Cricket Hong Kong’s distribution partner Sunset+Vine has secured broadcasting deals for the Hong Kong T20 Blitz that has the potential to reach 175 million viewers worldwide – but fans will miss out on Australian master blaster Chris Lynn, who is expected to pull out of the tournament after being picked by his national squad. BT Sport (UK), Fox Sports (Australia), OSN (Middle East), Neo Sports (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh), ESPN Caribbean, DSports (India) and Chinese-owned... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2130013/potential-hk-t20-blitz-audience-175-million-global-broadcasters-sign?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2130013/potential-hk-t20-blitz-audience-175-million-global-broadcasters-sign?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 22 Jan 2018 07:28:50 +0000 City Kaitak have high hopes that they have the players to improve on last year’s runners-up position and win February’s Hong Kong T20 Blitz at Mission Road. The team in the striking canary yellow outfits have confirmed Pakistani all-rounder Sohail Tanvir, English all-rounder Ravi Bopara, West Indies’ Samuel Badree and Rayad Emrit and Scotland’s Kyle Coetzer as their foreign players for the February 6-11 tournament. A few moments of magic from our players and your immense support got us to the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2129500/city-kaitak-sign-englands-ravi-bopara-they-eye-hong-kong-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2129500/city-kaitak-sign-englands-ravi-bopara-they-eye-hong-kong-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 18 Jan 2018 06:45:30 +0000 Hong Kong JD Jaguars are confident Australian master blaster Chris Lynn will be available for February’s Hong Kong T20 Blitz, having finalised their squad for the tournament at Mission Road. Lynn is one of the world’s outstanding T20 players, having starred for the Kolkata Knights in India and for Brisbane Heat in Australia’s Big Bash League. However, after being picked for Australia’s one-day squad to face England, there were doubts about his participation in the Blitz because there was a good... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2128714/hung-hom-jd-jaguars-bank-australian-ace-chris-lynn-hong-kong-t20?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2128714/hung-hom-jd-jaguars-bank-australian-ace-chris-lynn-hong-kong-t20?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 17 Jan 2018 14:09:43 +0000 Reigning champions Kowloon Cantons have finalised their squad for the Hong Kong T20 Blitz, with Pakistani left-arm fast bowler Wahab Riaz the final piece in the puzzle. Wahab is joined by West Indies’ Dwayne Smith and England’s Samit Patel and Ashar Zaidi. Although six international players are allowed, Cantons have chosen to go with only five with Dutchman Paul van Meekeren completing the overseas contingent. The squad will be led by Hong Kong captain Babar Hayat and they will be supported by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2128516/champions-kowloon-cantons-happy-five-overseas-players-2018-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2128516/champions-kowloon-cantons-happy-five-overseas-players-2018-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Jan 2018 10:49:03 +0000 Sri Lankan great Kumar Sangakkara is returning to the Hong Kong T20 Blitz and hoping he can once again inspire local talent when he lines up for Galaxy Gladiators Lantau in February. Sangakkara, who amassed 12,400 test runs and more than 14,200 in ODIs, was there to provide a guiding hand to Hong Kong’s Anshuman Rath at last year’s Blitz as the pair forged a friendship that continued beyond the local tournament. Rath, one of Hong Kong’s top batsmen, will this year play for City Kaitak but the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2127494/inspiring-hong-kong-talent-sri-lankan-kumar-sangakkara-returns-t20?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2127494/inspiring-hong-kong-talent-sri-lankan-kumar-sangakkara-returns-t20?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Jan 2018 09:17:01 +0000 The world’s number one ranked limited-overs bowler with the unique celebration style, Pakistan’s Hasan Ali, has signed up to play in the Hong Kong T20 Blitz – with his franchise hoping he can inspire local youngsters to become quality fast bowlers. The 23-year-old rising star will play for Hong Kong Island United in the tournament at Mission Road from February 6-11 and the franchise’s owners hope he is able to perform his celebration plenty of times in Hong Kong. He will be joined in the team by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2126540/worlds-no-1-limited-overs-bowler-hasan-ali-signs-hki-united-hong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2126540/worlds-no-1-limited-overs-bowler-hasan-ali-signs-hki-united-hong?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Jan 2018 09:51:46 +0000 West Indian Dwayne Smith, who helped Kowloon Cantons to the Hong Kong T20 Blitz title this year, will return to the franchise in their bid to defend their crown at Mission Road in February. The 34-year-old Smith, known as “The Doctor”, smashed 100 off 31 balls for Cantons against City Kaitak in a round-robin game, going on to make 121 in 40 deliveries as his team romped to an eight-wicket victory. It was one of the fastest centuries in Twenty20 cricket and Cantons said they were always wanting... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2121864/doctor-wayne-smith-hopes-hit-more-centuries-his-return-kowloon?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2121864/doctor-wayne-smith-hopes-hit-more-centuries-his-return-kowloon?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Nov 2017 02:42:13 +0000 Hung Hom JD Jaguars are hoping their Hong Kong representatives along with Australian recruit Chris Lynn can carry them to victory at the 2018 Hong Kong T20 Blitz in February. The Jaguars, after failing to make the final of the 2017 edition, are working even harder to make an impact at the next event. They will field five Hong Kong players – Nizakat Khan, Scott McKechnie, Ahmed Tanveer, Nadeem Ahmed and Kyle Christie – at the February 6-11 tournament at Mission Road. Along with Lynn, who became... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2121777/hung-hom-jd-jaguars-banking-hong-kong-players-and-aussie-chris-lynn-grab-t20?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2121777/hung-hom-jd-jaguars-banking-hong-kong-players-and-aussie-chris-lynn-grab-t20?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Nov 2017 09:13:48 +0000 Kowloon Cantons may not have corporate backing but they have something none of the other Hong Kong T20 Blitz franchises possess – two titles. And the defending champions are confident they can make it three in a row in the third edition of the tournament in February. Cantons, who are backed by a group of enthusiastic cricket-loving women, have retained coach Craig Wright, captain Babar Hayat and Ehsan Nawaz from last year’s title-winning team but were not able to reassemble all the players who... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2120686/no-sponsor-no-sweat-kowloon-cantons-hong-kong-t20-blitz-theyve-still-got-two?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2120686/no-sponsor-no-sweat-kowloon-cantons-hong-kong-t20-blitz-theyve-still-got-two?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 20 Nov 2017 06:02:01 +0000 City Kaitak made the most of their top pick for the 2018 Hong Kong T20 Blitz by choosing Hong Kong all-rounder Anshuman Rath - one of the stars of the previous tournament where he represented Galaxy Gladiators Lantau. Runners-up in 2017, City Kaitak also recruited wicketkeeper-batsman Jamie Atkinson, who played a role in Hong Kong’s victory in the Plate competition of last week’s World Sixes. A total of 42 players were picked during Thursday’s draft at the Cricket Hong Kong headquarters in So... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2118194/hong-kong-t20-blitz-draft-sees-anshuman-rath-taken-first-pick?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2118194/hong-kong-t20-blitz-draft-sees-anshuman-rath-taken-first-pick?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 02 Nov 2017 13:47:06 +0000 The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to approve plans for its long-awaited World Test Championship at a meeting in New Zealand this week, it was reported on Monday. The sport’s governing body has argued for years that a test championship is needed to boost the five-day format’s popularity as crowds and television viewers flock to the big-hitting Twenty20 version of the game. But squabbling over formats and fears that some nations will be disadvantaged have twice stymied efforts to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/2114513/international-cricket-council-approve-nine-team-test-championship?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/2114513/international-cricket-council-approve-nine-team-test-championship?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Oct 2017 05:36:04 +0000 The Hong Kong owners of Bloem City Blazers have signed up three players who played in March’s Hong Kong T20 Blitz, with two of them having represented their own City Kaitak team. The Blazers, who are taking part in South Africa’s Global T20 League, picked Dwayne Smith, Chris Jordan and Rayad Emrit in the draft on Sunday, along with Keiron Pollard, Dane Paterson with South Africa’s David Miller being their franchise player. Smith played for the triumphant Kowloon Cantons team at the Hong Kong... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2108639/three-hk-t20-blitz-players-bloem-city-blazers-squad-global-league?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2108639/three-hk-t20-blitz-players-bloem-city-blazers-squad-global-league?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 28 Aug 2017 09:15:18 +0000 The Hong Kong-based owners of City Group have unveiled their Bloemfontein-based franchise for South Africa’s Global T20 League – and they are bringing the same philosophy of “Be A Part, Stand Apart” to the team as they did for City Kaitak in the Hong Kong T20 Blitz. Sushil Kumar launched Hong Kong’s first overseas franchise, the Bloem City Blazers, with a vision to promote cricket in South Africa and around the world. Watch: Bloem City Blazers promotional video “We hope the team identity is... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2106802/hong-kong-owners-unveil-bloem-city-blazers-franchise-team-south-africas-global?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2106802/hong-kong-owners-unveil-bloem-city-blazers-franchise-team-south-africas-global?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 15 Aug 2017 00:07:02 +0000 The International Cricket Council (ICC) has praised Hong Kong for staging the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz, with official figures revealing that millions of cricket fans around the world watched the tournament live from March 8-12。 Cricket Hong Kong said on Wednesday that viewership numbers wildly surpassed targets, with 11.8 million views on Facebook and YouTube across five days – firmly establishing the tournament on the global Twenty20 calendar. Last year’s rain-shortened, three-day event garnered... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2083127/icc-praise-hong-kong-t20-blitz-118-million-viewers-worldwide?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2083127/icc-praise-hong-kong-t20-blitz-118-million-viewers-worldwide?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 29 Mar 2017 07:41:23 +0000 There were two hugely popular sporting contests last weekend in Hong Kong, a relatively rare occurrence in a city where top-drawer events remain thin on the ground. While Rex Tso Sing-yu’s latest boxing match dominated the media, you wonder how many people in the city even knew the Hong Kong T20 Blitz cricket tournament was even on. Tso’s latest win, against Japan’s Hirofumi Mukai, was the 21st of his unbeaten career. Eight thousand people packed the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2079457/rex-tso-vs-t20-blitz-interesting-contrasts-between-two-hugely?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2079457/rex-tso-vs-t20-blitz-interesting-contrasts-between-two-hugely?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Mar 2017 05:58:32 +0000 Despite a glittering array of foreign jewels on display at Mission Road it was an inspired performance from Hong Kong’s own Babar Hayat that proved the foundation of a dominant win for the Kowloon Cantons as they won by 25 runs and retained the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz title in sparkling style against City Kaitak on Sunday. Hayat’s slog of 76 from 40 balls set the tone for a high-scoring finale to the week with the defending champions running up a daunting total of 223-3 for Kaitak to chase. By... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2078206/kowloon-cantons-seal-second-t20-blitz-title-imperious-win-over-city?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/2078206/kowloon-cantons-seal-second-t20-blitz-title-imperious-win-over-city?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 12 Mar 2017 09:36:37 +0000 Watch: Kowloon Cantons v City Kaitak Commentary 5:05pm: Convincing victory for Kowloon Cantons. Their 222 for three was too much for City Kaitak, who managed to give Cantons a victory by 25 runs after being bowled out for 197 in 19.4 overs. That’s their second title in a row after sharing last year’s crown with defunct Woodworm Warriors. Great moment for Babar Hayat, the Cantons and Hong Kong captain, who has not looked out of place among some great international talent and scored 76 in the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2078163?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2078163?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 12 Mar 2017 02:15:28 +0000 Kowloon Cantons endured a gruelling three matches in 24 hours, winning two of them, to reach the final of the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz on Saturday at Mission Road. Cantons had a punishing schedule, losing to Hung Hom JD Jaguars on Friday evening before returning at 7.45am on Saturday for the first of two emphatic victories. After beating Hong Kong Island United by 44 runs, they completed their round-robin programme with a thumping 64-run win over Galaxy Gladiators Lantau – now out of the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2078092/kowloon-cantons-overcome-gruelling-schedule-reach-hong-kong-t20-blitz-final?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2078092/kowloon-cantons-overcome-gruelling-schedule-reach-hong-kong-t20-blitz-final?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Mar 2017 12:00:42 +0000 Hong Kong has long stretched the boundaries when it comes to hosting international cricket events. The mindset that such a cosmopolitan city simply must have a marquee cricket tournament – just like the Rugby Sevens – was too powerful to ignore for the then-named Hong Kong Cricket Association in the late ’80s, spawning the international all-rounders competition. That event, though not new to the world, was embraced by international fans and for tiny Hong Kong it was a huge success. You could not... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2078046/t20-blitz-or-sixes-can-hong-kong-sustain-two-big-cricket-events?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2078046/t20-blitz-or-sixes-can-hong-kong-sustain-two-big-cricket-events?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Mar 2017 03:30:10 +0000 Watch: Kowloon Cantons v Galaxy Gladiators Lantau Commentary 5:49pm: In the end, it was pretty meek from Gladiators. Cantons deserved winners, by 64 runs, finishing on six points from their four group matches and into the final. Gladiators, 156 all out in 19.1 overs, definitely out and it’s now a fight between City Kaitak, Hung Hom JD Jaguars and HKI United for the other place in the final. Jaguars will want HKI to beat Kaitak by a small margin in the final game on Sunday to help their cause,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2078033/watch-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-four-live?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2078033/watch-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-four-live?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 10 Mar 2017 23:44:04 +0000 Sri Lankan great Kumar Sangakkara praised Hong Kong all-rounder Anshuman Rath after the pair helped Galaxy Gladiators Lantau to their first victory of the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz at Mission Road on Friday. In the second match, Hung Hom JD Jaguars returned to winning ways with a 18-run victory over Kowloon Cantons that takes them to the top of the five-team table. Sangakkara, a T20 World Cup winner, scored 70 not out and Galaxy captain Rath hit an unbeaten 50 as they beat a strong Hong Kong... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077882/hong-kongs-anshuman-rath-earns-praise-kumar-sangakkara-gladiators-triumph?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077882/hong-kongs-anshuman-rath-earns-praise-kumar-sangakkara-gladiators-triumph?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 10 Mar 2017 12:52:24 +0000 Watch: Kowloon Cantons versus Hung Hom JD Jaguars Commentary 5:16: Jaguars beat Kowloon Cantons by 18 runs. That’s a second win for the Jaguars and first defeat for Cantons. Jaguars set a target of 165 but the Cantons were never really in the chase, especially when big hitters Dwayne Smith and Marlon Samuels fell without really making an impact. They finished on 146 for seven in 20 overs. First inning scores are getting lower and lower but chasing teams are still struggling to overhaul their... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077674/watch-dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-three-live?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077674/watch-dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-three-live?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 09 Mar 2017 23:56:46 +0000 Misbah-ul-Haq is a man who never seems to be in a hurry, even as he is hitting six straight sixes and leading his HKI United team to an impressive victory in the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz. The Pakistan captain languidly smashed 82 not out in 37 balls as United made their tournament debut on Thursday with a 33-run victory over the Hung Hom JD Jaguars. In the second match of the day, City Kaitak picked up their first victory by beating Galaxy Gladiators Lantau by six wickets with 28 balls... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077506/misbah-ul-haq-takes-charge-hki-united-win-big-dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077506/misbah-ul-haq-takes-charge-hki-united-win-big-dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 09 Mar 2017 12:58:36 +0000 Watch: Galaxy Gladiators Lantau versus City Kaitak Commentary 4:55pm: City Kaitak beat Galaxy Gladiators Lantau by six wickets. Easy win for City Kaitak with Tillakaratne Dilshan laying the foundations with his 38 and captain Aizaz Khan contributing 36. Gareth Harte helped out with 23 as Kaitak scored 158 for four in 15.2 overs, overhauling Gladiators’ 155 for nine. That’s one win for Kaitak from two matches while Gladiators have suffered two straight defeats. Quotes: Anshuman Rath (Gladiators... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077359/watch-dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-two-live?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077359/watch-dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-two-live?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 09 Mar 2017 02:00:15 +0000 West Indian players dominated the opening day of the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz with Dwayne Smith leading the way thanks to his brilliant century for Kowloon Cantons, while Hong Kong’s Anshuman Rath also shone albeit in a losing effort for Galaxy Gladiators Lantau. DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz – Day One live Smith smashed 121 not out off just 40 deliveries with 13 sixes at Mission Road on Wednesday as Cantons romped to an eight-wicket victory over City Kaitak, with his Windies teammate Marlon Samuels... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077142/dwayne-smith-lights-hong-kong-t20-blitz-sparkling-ton-caribbean-stars-shine?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077142/dwayne-smith-lights-hong-kong-t20-blitz-sparkling-ton-caribbean-stars-shine?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Mar 2017 11:57:13 +0000 Day 2 is underway — Click here for live streaming and commentary Commentary The day started with rain and ended with fireworks. Organisers must be happy with the first day of the 2017 DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz. The crowd of about 200 certainly got what they paid for, with plenty of sixes and drama, particularly in the second match. So, victories for Hung Hom JD Jaguars and Kowloon Cantons. The ground is looking good but dark clouds still threaten. Hopefully it would have cleared up by Thursday,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077013/dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-one-live?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2077013/dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz-day-one-live?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Mar 2017 03:29:58 +0000 The first ball of the 2017 DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz is set to be delivered on Wednesday morning after a hectic few months in which the five franchises have scrambled to put together squads featuring top overseas and local players. But while winning is priority for all teams, the mood at Tuesday’s pre-tournament media day was more about what the event can do for cricket in Hong Kong and the region rather than who are favourites to win. West Indies’ World Cup-winning captain Darren Sammy, fresh... https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/2076780/start-something-big-cricketers-ready-take-dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/2076780/start-something-big-cricketers-ready-take-dtc-hong-kong-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 07 Mar 2017 12:00:15 +0000 Kowloon Cantons have praised Shahid Afridi after the Pakistani all-rounder said he would still travel to the city for the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz despite injuring his hand during the Pakistan Super League. The 27-year-old former national captain hurt his right hand while fielding in a match for Peshawar Zalmi in UAE, against Karachi Kings. He needed 12 stitches and was forced to pull out of his team’s final against Quetta Gladiators, which Zalmi won in Lahore to be crowned champions. Although he... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2076475/kowloon-cantons-hail-injured-shahid-afridi-pakistan-star-mentor-team-will-not?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2076475/kowloon-cantons-hail-injured-shahid-afridi-pakistan-star-mentor-team-will-not?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 06 Mar 2017 12:45:30 +0000 A strong dose of international star power is set to make Hong Kong the centre of global cricket from March 8-12, with the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz at Tin Kwong Road having the potential to become one of the world’s leading short-form tournaments. Barely 10 months after the inaugural edition hailed ex-Australia captain Michael Clarke as its marquee name, the five franchise for this year’s event have pulled together 25 overseas players from nine countries and brought in top coaches. The stellar... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2075468/squads-complete-hong-kong-t20-blitz-organisers-sitting-potential-global?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2075468/squads-complete-hong-kong-t20-blitz-organisers-sitting-potential-global?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 02 Mar 2017 07:46:01 +0000 England fast bowler Chris Jordan and West Indian all-rounder Rayad Emrit have been signed up by City Kaitak for the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz next month. The pair will link up with Sri Lankan T20 specialist Tillakaratne Dilshan in what should be a strong City Kaitak team for the March 8-12 tournament at Tin Kwong Road. “I am really excited to be taking part in the Hong Kong T20 Blitz this year. As soon as I spoke to City Kaitak, I was sure I wanted to take part and I can’t wait to join up with the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2073036/englands-chris-jordan-and-west-indies-rayad-emrit-joins-city-kaitak-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2073036/englands-chris-jordan-and-west-indies-rayad-emrit-joins-city-kaitak-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 22 Feb 2017 09:12:55 +0000 The Hong Kong T20 Blitz will boast one of the world’s most expensive cricketers after England fast bowler Tymal Mills was snapped up by an Indian Premier League franchise for HK$13.5 million (£1.4 million). Mills, 24, entered his name into the IPL auction this week half-hoping to be picked up at the base price of £60,000. He ended up being the second-most expensive player to be picked, by Bangalore, after England vice captain Ben Stokes was signed by Rising Pune Supergiants for £1.7m. “I can’t... https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2072693/tymal-mills-ipl-price-tag-hk135-million-raises-profile-hong-kong-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/article/2072693/tymal-mills-ipl-price-tag-hk135-million-raises-profile-hong-kong-t20-blitz?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Feb 2017 10:15:45 +0000 Legendary Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi on Sunday announced his retirement from international cricket, ending an illustrious and sometimes controversial 21-year career. The 36-year-old star had already quit tests in 2010 and ODI cricket after the 2015 World Cup but still skippered the Pakistan Twenty20 team at the 2016 world championships in India. Afridi, who was last month announced as one of the marquee names to participate at the upcoming Hong Kong T20 Blitz, stepped down as captain... https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/2072265/bye-bye-boom-boom-hong-kong-bound-shahid-afridi-ends-international?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/2072265/bye-bye-boom-boom-hong-kong-bound-shahid-afridi-ends-international?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 20 Feb 2017 02:42:30 +0000