Key Points:
- India defeated Pakistan by 61 runs at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, securing a spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026.
- Ishan Kishan won Player of the Match for scoring a quick 77 runs off 40 balls, helping India set a total of 175/7.
- Pakistan was bowled out for 114 in 18 overs, with Indian bowlers Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy taking two wickets each.
India beat Pakistan by 61 runs in a T20 World Cup match on Sunday at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. With this win, India became the first team to move to the Super 8 stage.
Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, won the toss and chose to bowl first. At first, it looked like a good choice because India lost Abhishek Sharma for a duck in the first over. But then, Ishan Kishan played very well. He scored 77 runs from only 40 balls. With help from Tilak Varma and captain Suryakumar Yadav, India finished with a strong score of 175 for 7. Pakistan tried something unusual by using spin bowlers for 18 overs. Saim Ayub took three wickets.
When Pakistan tried to chase the score, they struggled immediately. Indian fast bowlers Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah took early wickets. Pakistan was soon reduced to 34 for 4. Usman Khan tried to fight back by scoring 44 runs, but the Indian bowling attack was too strong. Pakistan was all out for 114 runs in 18 overs. Pandya, Bumrah, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy each took two wickets. The match was so one-sided that the head of Pakistan’s cricket board left the stadium early. After the game, Suryakumar Yadav proudly said, “This is for India.”
India has a very good record against Pakistan in World Cups. As the defending champions, India have already beaten the USA and Namibia in this tournament. They are now at the top of Group A with six points.
India will play their last group match against the Netherlands on Wednesday in Ahmedabad. Pakistan are now in third place and must win their next game to stay in the tournament.