In a thrilling encounter at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, India crushed Pakistan by 61 runs in the 27th match of the T20 World Cup 2026. This emphatic victory propelled Team India into the Super-8 stage, igniting celebrations across the nation. Ishan Kishan, who smashed a blistering 77 off 40 balls, was rightfully named Player of the Match. Speaking post-match, the young opener revealed how this triumph would supercharge the team’s morale.
India set the tone by batting first, posting a formidable 175 for 7. Kishan’s explosive innings, featuring 10 fours and 3 sixes, dismantled Pakistan’s bowling attack. Captain Suryakumar Yadav chipped in with 25 runs, providing stability in the middle order. Chasing 176, Pakistan crumbled to 114 all out in just 18 overs. Usman Khan top-scored with 44, while Shaheen Afridi remained not out on 23, but it wasn’t enough to mount a challenge.
‘India vs Pakistan matches are always special, not just for us but for the entire country,’ Kishan said with a grin. ‘This win gives us tremendous confidence, and we want to carry this momentum forward.’ Reflecting on his knock, he added, ‘The pitch wasn’t easy early on. You have to back yourself and focus on your strengths. I wanted to force them to concede runs on the off-side, where I’ve worked hard. Keeping it simple, I aimed for 160-170, which felt defendable.’
The bowling was equally dominant, with Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy each claiming two wickets. Kishan praised the pacers: ‘Shaheen was bowling, but I didn’t think the pitch offered much to fast bowlers. Yet, Bumrah and Pandya’s two overs were outstanding.’
This historic win not only avenges past rivalries but sets India up perfectly for the Super-8 clashes. With Kishan’s form and the bowling firepower, opponents should be wary. Team India looks poised for a deep run in the tournament.