The cauldron of R Premadasa Stadium witnessed a young Pakistani spinner’s fairy tale unfold. Usman Tariq labeled his T20 World Cup showdown with India as a ‘dream realized,’ backing it up with a probing 1/24 display.
Kishan’s blistering 77 off 40 balls anchored India’s 175/7, but Pakistan’s spinners – bowling 18 overs – applied the brakes effectively. Sam Ayub’s 3/25 complemented the effort, creating chaseable conditions.
Tariq’s middle-over mastery came via innovative techniques: deliberate holds, shifting release points, and spin wizardry that captivated onlookers. ‘These matches carry massive weight,’ he shared mid-break. ‘Energy was off the charts – pure dream stuff.’
Handling the sluggish deck? ‘CPL experience helped,’ Tariq revealed. ‘Played similar conditions there. Slowed their momentum, got us to safety.’
Bullish on the pursuit, he said, ‘Our batsmen bring firepower and purpose. Mindset’s dialed in – target achievable.’
Group A leaders India, fresh off crushing USA and Namibia, seek a trio of wins for Super 8 glory. Two-win Pakistan in third hungers for momentum. This rivalry never disappoints.