Cricket – India Outplay Pakistan by 61 Runs in T20 World Cup Clash
Cricket – India delivered a commanding performance against Pakistan in a high-stakes Group A encounter at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, sealing a comprehensive 61-run victory and strengthening their position at the top of the table.
Spin-Friendly Surface Shapes the Contest
Speaking after the match, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson acknowledged that his team struggled to adjust to the conditions, particularly on a pitch that aided spin bowling early in the evening.
Hesson noted that India assessed the surface more effectively, especially during the first innings when the ball was gripping and turning sharply. He pointed out that the way Ishan Kishan handled the spinners shifted the momentum decisively.
According to the Pakistan coach, India managed to push their total well beyond what was considered competitive on such a surface. He estimated that the final score was at least 25 runs above par, putting significant pressure on his side before the chase even began.
Batting Shortcomings Prove Costly
While acknowledging India’s execution, Hesson made it clear that Pakistan’s batting approach was the greater concern. He said the team failed to recalibrate its strategy after assessing how the pitch was behaving, which ultimately limited their chances of mounting a serious challenge.
Pakistan’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss also drew scrutiny, but Hesson dismissed suggestions that it was a defensive move. He explained that both teams were likely to field first, given that the pitch appeared softer under lights and was expected to offer more assistance to bowlers in the opening innings.
He emphasized that the difference was not the toss, but execution with both bat and ball.
Debate Over Bowling Changes
Questions were also raised about the timing of introducing Usman Tariq into the attack. Hesson defended the move, saying the spinner has a clearly defined role within the team’s strategy and is particularly effective when batters attempt to accelerate against him.
He added that Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan had delivered consistently in recent matches, including the team’s previous five victories. Although their lengths were not precise on this occasion, Hesson expressed confidence in their abilities, stating that one off day should not overshadow their recent contributions.
India Recover to Post Strong Total
After being asked to bat first, India suffered an early setback when Abhishek fell without scoring. However, Kishan steadied the innings with an aggressive 77, while Tilak contributed a measured 25. Despite losing established batters and all-rounder Hardik Pandya for no score, India regrouped effectively.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav, along with Shivam and Rinku, ensured a strong finish. Their calculated acceleration in the final overs lifted India to 175 for 7. Saim Ayub was the standout bowler for Pakistan, returning figures of 3 for 25.
Early Collapse Ends Pakistan’s Hopes
Pakistan’s chase faltered almost immediately. Hardik, Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel struck early, reducing the innings to 34 for 4 and leaving the middle order exposed.
Usman Khan offered resistance with a fighting 44 off 34 deliveries, including six boundaries and a six. However, the rest of the batting lineup struggled to build partnerships. Pakistan were eventually dismissed for 114 in 18 overs.
Axar led the bowling effort with two wickets, while Hardik, Bumrah and Varun Chakaravarthy also picked up two wickets each in a disciplined display.
Group A Standings and Head-to-Head Record
With three wins from three matches, India sit comfortably at the top of Group A and have secured progression to the Super 8 stage. Pakistan, now with two victories and one defeat, occupy third place, while the United States remain second with two wins from four matches.
The result also extends India’s dominance over their rivals in T20 World Cup meetings, improving their head-to-head record to 8-1.