India registered a comprehensive 61-run victory over Pakistan in a high-profile Group A match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Colombo on Saturday, riding on a fluent half-century from Ishan Kishan and a disciplined effort from their bowlers.
Batting first, India posted 175 for 7 after being put in. Ishan Kishan anchored the innings with a stroke-filled 77 off 40 balls, striking boundaries at regular intervals and maintaining the tempo through the middle overs. He found support from the middle order, which added useful runs in the closing stages to push the total well beyond the 170-mark.
Pakistan’s chase got off to a shaky start as Jasprit Bumrah struck early to remove the top-order batters. The early setbacks meant the required run rate kept climbing, forcing Pakistan into risky strokes. Hardik Pandya then delivered crucial breakthroughs to prevent any recovery, while wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav controlled the middle overs with tight lines and key wickets.
Despite the collapse around him, Usman Khan offered some resistance with a fighting 44, but lacked support from the other end as Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. India’s sharp fielding further added to the pressure, converting half-chances into wickets and saving valuable runs.
Ishan Kishan was named Player of the Match for his match-defining innings that laid the foundation for India’s victory.
The win ensured India’s qualification for the Super 8 stage and extended their dominant record against Pakistan in T20 World Cup encounters. Pakistan, on the other hand, now face a must-win situation in their remaining group fixture to stay in contention.
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