India Crushes Pakistan to Enter Super 8
The Indian cricket team delivered a clinical performance to defeat arch-rivals Pakistan by 61 runs in their T20 World Cup 2026 group stage match at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. With this commanding victory on February 15, India has officially secured a spot in the Super 8 stage. The high-voltage clash was marked by dominant power-hitting and a relentless bowling attack that left the Pakistan lineup with no answers.
Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was the star of the show, smashing a blistering 77 off just 40 deliveries. His explosive innings, which included ten fours and three sixes, provided the foundation for India’s competitive total of 175 for 7. Despite losing opener Abhishek Sharma early, the Indian middle order, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, ensured the momentum stayed with the Men in Blue.
Chasing 176, Pakistan’s innings never truly took off. The Indian pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya struck early, leaving the opposition reeling at 13 for 3 within the first two overs. While Usman Khan offered some resistance with a valiant 44, the introduction of spin further derailed the chase. Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel picked up crucial wickets, eventually bowling out Pakistan for 114 in 18 overs.
Beyond the boundaries, the match was noted for its intense atmosphere and a continued “no-handshake” policy between the two teams at the toss and post-match ceremony. This reflected the ongoing diplomatic tensions, yet the capacity crowd in Colombo witnessed a game played with high competitive spirit. India now moves to the top of Group A with three consecutive wins, maintaining their legendary dominance over Pakistan in World Cup history.
The Indian team will now travel to Ahmedabad to face the Netherlands in their final group fixture on February 18. Meanwhile, Pakistan faces a must-win situation against Namibia to keep their tournament hopes alive. Fans are already looking forward to a potential rematch in the later stages of the tournament as India seeks to defend its T20 world title on home and co-host soil.
