India Crush Pakistan by 61 Runs in T20 World Cup 2026 Clash; Kishan Stars in Colombo

Colombo, February 15, 2026 — Cricket’s most intense rivalry delivered another memorable chapter as India national cricket team defeated Pakistan national cricket team by a commanding 61 runs in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Group A match at the R. Premadasa Stadium. A brilliant knock from Ishan Kishan and a disciplined bowling performance powered India into the Super 8 stage and reinforced their dominance over their arch-rivals.

India posted 175/7 in 20 overs, their highest total against Pakistan in T20 World Cup history, before bowling Pakistan out for just 114 in 18.4 overs.

Kishan Leads India’s Strong Batting Display

After being put in to bat, India faced early pressure when Abhishek Sharma fell cheaply. However, Kishan shifted momentum quickly with an aggressive and composed innings. His 77 off 40 balls, featuring eight fours and four sixes, provided the backbone of India’s total.

He attacked both pace and spin with confidence, ensuring India maintained a healthy scoring rate throughout the innings.

Tilak Varma contributed 25 off 24 balls, while Suryakumar Yadav added a steady 32 off 29 balls. Late cameos from Shivam Dube (27 off 15) and Rinku Singh helped India finish strongly.

Pakistan’s best bowling performance came from Saim Ayub, who took three wickets, but India’s depth ensured a competitive total.

India Innings Summary:
India – 175/7 (20 overs)
Ishan Kishan – 77 (40)
Suryakumar Yadav – 32 (29)
Shivam Dube – 27 (15)

India Bowlers Dominate Pakistan’s Chase

Pakistan’s chase never gained stability as India’s bowlers struck early and consistently. Jasprit Bumrah delivered a crucial spell, removing key batters and breaking Pakistan’s momentum.

Hardik Pandya set the tone by taking an early wicket, while Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy applied pressure through the middle overs.

Usman Khan’s 44 off 34 balls was the only significant resistance, but regular wickets ensured Pakistan never came close to the target.

Pakistan Innings Summary:
Pakistan – 114 all out (18.4 overs)
Usman Khan – 44 (34)
Shaheen Afridi – 23 (19)

India Bowling Highlights:
Bumrah – 2/17
Hardik Pandya – 2 wickets
Axar Patel – 2 wickets
Varun Chakaravarthy – 2 wickets

Player of the Match: Ishan Kishan

Kishan was named Player of the Match for his match-winning innings.

He said after the match:

“The pitch was challenging, but I focused on timing the ball and building partnerships. Matches like these demand both patience and aggression.”

His innings proved decisive and demonstrated India’s batting strength in high-pressure situations.

India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup Head-to-Head Record

With this victory, India further extended their dominance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Total matches: 9
India wins: 8
Pakistan wins: 1

Pakistan’s only win came in 2021 in Dubai, while India has consistently controlled the rivalry since their first meeting in 2007.

The 2026 victory also marked India’s biggest win by runs against Pakistan in T20 World Cup history.

Tournament Implications

This victory secured India’s qualification for the Super 8 stage, making them one of the strongest contenders for the title. Their balanced squad, combining experienced players and emerging stars, has delivered consistent performances throughout the tournament.

Pakistan now faces a must-win situation in their remaining matches to stay in contention for qualification.

A Rivalry Beyond Cricket

India vs Pakistan matches continue to captivate global audiences, drawing millions of viewers and intense fan engagement worldwide. The atmosphere in Colombo reflected the emotional and sporting significance of this historic rivalry.

India’s dominant performance once again showcased their ability to deliver under pressure and strengthened their position as one of the favourites to win the T20 World Cup 2026.

Match Summary

India: 175/7 (20 overs)
Pakistan: 114 all out (18.4 overs)
Result: India won by 61 runs
Player of the Match: Ishan Kishan