India registered a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan in their T20 World Cup Group A encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, combining aggressive batting with disciplined bowling in a high-pressure clash that once again carried political and emotional undertones.
Ishan Kishan Anchors India’s Innings
Asked to bat first on a sluggish surface, India posted a competitive 175 for seven, largely powered by a composed yet attacking unbeaten knock from Ishan Kishan. The left-handed opener struck 77 runs off just 40 deliveries, finding gaps with ease and punishing loose deliveries to keep the scoreboard moving despite regular wickets at the other end.
The Premadasa pitch offered uneven bounce and grip, making stroke-making difficult for most batters. Kishan, however, adjusted smartly, mixing timing with controlled aggression to anchor the innings and give India a defendable total.
Bumrah, Pandya Rip Through Pakistan
In reply, Pakistan never found momentum. Jasprit Bumrah set the tone early with sharp pace and movement, while Hardik Pandya provided crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs. Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs, falling well short of the target.
India’s bowling unit maintained relentless pressure, exploiting Pakistan’s hesitant footwork and lack of partnerships. Regular wickets ensured there was no realistic chase, even as the crowd anticipated a fightback.
No-Handshake Policy Continues
Beyond the cricketing contest, attention once again shifted to India’s decision to avoid post-match handshakes with the Pakistani team. At the toss, Indian players acknowledged Pakistan captain Salman Agha with a brief nod but refrained from customary handshakes, continuing a policy first observed during last year’s Asia Cup.
The stance sparked widespread discussion among fans and former players. Supporters of the move hailed it as a firm and symbolic position amid strained relations, particularly referencing the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, which deeply impacted public sentiment.
Debate Among Former Cricketers and Fans
Former India cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar, however, criticised the gesture, calling it “silly” and “unbecoming of international sport.” His remarks triggered further debate online, with opinions sharply divided on whether politics should influence on-field conduct.
While some argued that sport should remain separate from geopolitics, others maintained that players represent national sentiment and are entitled to express it symbolically, especially in emotionally charged contests like India versus Pakistan.
India Strengthen Super 8 Push
With this emphatic win, India strengthened their position in Group A and boosted confidence ahead of the Super 8 stage. The team management will take heart from the balance between batting resilience and bowling precision, even as external narratives continue to swirl around the squad.
As the tournament progresses, India’s performances—and their off-field decisions—are likely to remain under intense scrutiny, ensuring that cricketing action and broader debates continue to intersect on the world stage.
