Kishan and Bowlers Power India to Dominant 61-Run Victory Over Pakistan in T20 World Cup Clash

COLOMBO- India secured a comprehensive 61-run victory over Pakistan today at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, maintaining their unbeaten record in the T20 World Cup 2026 and officially qualifying for the Super Eight stage.India was put in to bat on a sluggish pitch and finished with a competitive total of 175/7. The innings was anchored by Ishan Kishan, who struck a dominant 77 off 40 balls, including ten fours and three sixes. While other batters found the surface challenging, Kishan’s aggressive start ensured India stayed ahead of the required rate. Captain Suryakumar Yadav added a steady 32, and a late charge by Shivam Dube (27) pushed the score past 170. For Pakistan, Saim Ayub was the standout bowler, taking 3/25, including the crucial wicket of Kishan.The chase for Pakistan began poorly and never recovered. Hardik Pandya struck in the opening over, and Jasprit Bumrah followed with two wickets in the second over, dismissing Saim Ayub and captain Salman Ali Agha. Pakistan struggled against the Indian spin attack, with Axar Patel taking 2/29 and Varun Chakaravarthy finishing with 2/17 after nearly taking a hat-trick in the 16th over. Usman Khan provided the only significant resistance with 44, but Pakistan was eventually bundled out for 114 in 18 overs.The match also saw high tension before a ball was bowled, as the two captains notably refrained from the traditional handshake at the toss. This win takes India to a 3-0 record in Group A, while Pakistan must now win their remaining fixtures to keep their qualifying hopes alive.