The India national cricket team continued their dominant run in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup with a comprehensive 61-run victory over long-time rivals Pakistan national cricket team in a high-voltage Group A encounter.
The match, held at the R. Premadasa Stadium, saw India produce a balanced performance with both bat and ball to confirm their place in the Super Eight stage.
Kishan Anchors India’s Batting Display
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to field and relied heavily on spin during the early overs. Captain Salman Ali Agha surprised many by opening the bowling himself and made an immediate impact by dismissing Abhishek Sharma.
Despite the early setback, Ishan Kishan counterattacked brilliantly. His 77 off just 40 balls provided India with crucial momentum, especially during the powerplay. India crossed the 50-run mark inside six overs and maintained a steady scoring rate even as Pakistan rotated their spinners effectively.
Saim Ayub briefly lifted Pakistan’s hopes with a three-wicket spell, removing key middle-order batters and slowing India’s surge. Contributions from captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube ensured India closed their innings at a competitive 175 for 7 after 20 overs.
Indian Bowlers Seal the Game Early
Pakistan’s response never truly gathered pace. The Indian pace attack struck quickly, reducing Pakistan to 13 for 3 within two overs. Hardik Pandya removed Sahibzada Farhan for a duck, while Jasprit Bumrah delivered a crucial over that accounted for both Ayub and Salman.
Former skipper Babar Azam also fell cheaply as Pakistan struggled at 38 for 4 at the end of the powerplay.
Usman Khan attempted to rebuild with a determined 44, but his dismissal to Axar Patel effectively ended any realistic chance of a comeback. Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs, handing India their third straight win in the group phase.
India March On
The victory strengthens India’s position as one of the tournament’s strongest contenders. With momentum firmly on their side, the defending champions now look ahead to the Super Eight stage with confidence, while Pakistan face mounting pressure to keep their campaign alive.
No comments: