Pakistan's Political U-Turn Ends In Humiliating No-Show on The Field Against India

Pakistan’s dramatic pre-match U-turn over a proposed boycott failed to translate into performance as Pakistan national cricket team suffered a heavy defeat to India national cricket team in their ICC Men's T20 World Cup Group A clash on Sunday. Despite eventually taking the field, Pakistan were comprehensively outplayed in all departments.

The controversy began in the lead-up to the fixture when Pakistan initially announced a boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh. Following intervention by the International Cricket Council and high-level meetings in Lahore, the Pakistan government reversed its stance, clearing the team to play at the R. Premadasa Stadium. However, the on-field showing drew sharp criticism from fans and analysts.

On a slow Colombo surface, Pakistan attempted an unusual spin-heavy strategy, deploying a record six spinners — an unprecedented move in T20 World Cup history. The gamble failed to pay off as India’s batters handled the conditions comfortably, exposing inconsistent lengths and lack of penetration from the bowling attack.

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India posted a competitive 175/7, powered by a fluent 77 off 40 balls from Ishan Kishan. The total proved well above par on the surface, especially as Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to maintain control despite familiarity with Sri Lankan conditions.

Pakistan’s chase quickly unravelled. Early wickets — including Sahibzada Farhan for a duck and Babar Azam for just five — triggered a collapse the side never recovered from. The innings ended at 114, sealing a comprehensive defeat.

Captain Salman Ali Agha admitted the team fell short, saying the spinners had an off day and the batting unit failed to apply itself. The result underscored that while the boycott drama dominated headlines, Pakistan’s on-field execution ultimately determined the outcome.

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