The age-old rivalry reignited in Colombo as India steamrolled Pakistan by 61 runs in T20 World Cup 2026 match 27 at R Premadasa Stadium, clinching Super-8 berth. Ishan Kishan’s 77 off 40—10 fours, 3 sixes—earned him Player of the Match, and he credited the result for skyrocketing team confidence.
India’s innings totaled 175/7, with Kishan anchoring the assault and Suryakumar Yadav’s 25 steadying ship. Pakistan managed 114 in 18 overs chasing, led by Usman Khan’s 44 and Shaheen Afridi’s gritty 23*.
‘Every India-Pakistan game is massive for the country,’ Kishan beamed. ‘This boosts our confidence immensely—we’ll sustain the momentum.’ On technique: ‘Tricky start on pitch required faith in abilities. Forced runs off-side via dedicated work. Kept mind clear for 160-170 target.’
Pacers starred despite conditions: Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah took 2 each, alongside Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy. ‘Bumrah and Pandya’s overs were pure class,’ Kishan noted.
Victory cements India’s credentials. Kishan’s poise, bowling depth promise exciting Super-8 battles. The road to glory looks promising.