In the T20 World Cup 2026 match against Pakistan, Team India registered a stunning victory by 61 runs at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.
Having put to bat first, the “Men in Blue” posted a total of 175 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. However, in an attempt to chase the target, the “Green Shirts” were bowled out for 114 runs in 18 overs.
Speaking after the loss, former Pakistan cricketer Waqar Younis said that his national team lost the match in the first innings. He also stated that the total of 175 runs was out of reach of Pakistan`s batting lineup.
“Pakistan lost the game in the first innings. Once India reached 175, the game was out of Pakistan`s reach. The ball was spinning, and Suryakumar Yadav was smart with his bowling changes,” he said.
“We always knew Pakistan`s batting is not great. But if India had scored 140 or 150 instead of 175, things might have been different,” added Younis.
The former cricketer then heaped praise on Team India players for their performances, but also expressed disappointment over Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha`s decision to introduce Usman Tariq late in the match.
“He (Suryakumar) gave the new ball to Hardik Pandya up front. Jasprit Bumrah was outstanding as always, attacking the stumps, swinging and seaming the ball. It was very difficult for Pakistan after that. Salman Ali Agha allowed that to happen by not introducing Usman Tariq early,” he said.
“Tariq was superb, taking a wicket and conceding just 24 runs. We have been talking about him for weeks. But he was held back for too long. By the time he got the ball, Ishan Kishan had already done the damage. That is where the match was lost,” explained the 54-year-old former cricketer.
The victory also helped the “Men in Blue” to qualify for the “Super 8” stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. So far in the tournament, they have played three matches and have secured wins in as many games. Team India is enjoying the top spot in Group A with a net run rate (NRR) of +3.050 and six points.
T20 World Cup 2026: Team India`s upcoming fixture
Suryakumar Yadav-led men will now lock horns with the Netherlands on February 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
(With PTI Inputs)
