IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan 7 Down, India on Course for Big Win
Pakistan slump to 7 wickets down chasing 176 as India dominate with spin on a tricky Premadasa pitch.
In a high-stakes T20 World Cup 2026 clash at the R. Premadasa Stadium, India set a challenging target of 176 runs for Pakistan, anchored by a sensational innings from opener Ishan Kishan. Kishan scored 77 off just 27 balls, including 10 fours and three sixes, helping India maintain a healthy run rate despite disciplined bowling from Pakistan’s spinners on a slow pitch.
Kishan’s explosive start allowed India’s middle order, led by Suryakumar Yadav, to build a competitive total of 175/7 in 20 overs. While Pakistan’s spinners managed to restrict most Indian batters, Kishan’s carnage at the top proved decisive in setting a strong foundation for India’s innings. The pre-match tension was palpable as the two captains did not shake hands at the toss.
Pakistan’s reply began in turmoil, with Hardik Pandya striking in the very first over to remove Sahibzada Farhan, who had courted controversy during the Asia Cup for a gun gesture against India. Jasprit Bumrah followed with a double strike in the second over, dismissing Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha, leaving Pakistan in early trouble.
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Veteran batter Babar Azam was soon dismissed by Axar Patel, further crippling Pakistan’s top order. Patel then scalped his second wicket, reducing Pakistan to five down and leaving the chase in jeopardy. With the top and middle order collapsing, Pakistan struggled to find partnerships and build momentum on a pitch that demanded caution.
India’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding kept the visitors under constant pressure, forcing Pakistan to play tentative cricket. Each run was hard-earned, and early breakthroughs by Pandya, Bumrah, and Patel tilted the match heavily in India’s favour, setting the stage for a likely dominant performance by the Men in Blue.
As the game progressed, India maintained control over both bat and ball. If their bowlers continue this intensity, the outcome seems increasingly clear, with Pakistan facing an uphill battle to chase down the challenging total in this marquee World Cup fixture.
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