Colombo: Fans were left disappointed as 2009 champions Pakistan were comprehensively beaten by defending champions India in their Group A match of the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday.
Batting first, India scored 175-7 in 20 overs thanks to Ishan Kishan’s brilliant innings of 77 runs off 40 balls, including 10 fours and 3 sixes.
In reply, Pakistan were bowled out for 114 runs in 18 overs and India won by 61 runs.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Usman Khan led the Pakistan score with 44 off 34 balls, while only Faheem Ashraf (10) and Shaheen Afridi (23 not out) reached double figures.
Many fans questioned the place of veteran players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Shatab Khan due to their lackluster performances on the big stage in recent matches.
With a 61-run victory, India recorded their third straight win in Group A, cementing their top spot and qualifying for the Super Eights with one match remaining against the Netherlands on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, it was Pakistan’s first defeat at the 2026 T20 World Cup, which reduced their net run rate and allowed the four-point United States (USA) to advance in the group stages.
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