India secured victory in the most anticipated match of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, defeating Pakistan by 61 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and ICC Chairman Jay Shah were present at the venue to witness the high-profile encounter. The game attracted global attention after Pakistan initially hinted at a possible boycott, but following diplomatic discussions and mediation, the team confirmed participation. Around 2,500 police officers were deployed to ensure security.
Before the start, tournament ambassador Rohit Sharma ceremonially carried the trophy onto the field.
India Innings – 175/7 (20 Overs)
After winning the toss, Pakistan elected to bowl first.
Openers Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma started the innings, but Abhishek fell for a duck. Kishan then anchored the innings with a brilliant knock:
- Ishan Kishan – 77 (40 balls, 10 fours, 3 sixes)
- Tilak Varma – 25
- Suryakumar Yadav – 32
- Shivam Dube – 27
India posted 175/7 in 20 overs, with Saim Ayub claiming three wickets.
Pakistan Innings – 114 All Out (18 Overs)
Chasing 176, Pakistan collapsed early:
- Sahibzada Farhan – 0
- Saim Ayub – 6
- First four wickets fell for just 34 runs
Top scorer Usman Khan made 44, but Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs.
India completed a dominant 61-run victory, delivering a memorable result in cricket’s greatest rivalry
