What went so right for India - and so wrong for Pakistan - in Colombo?

Ishan Kishan’s explosive 77 and a fiery bowling spell led by Bumrah and Hardik power India to a dominant victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in Colombo.

In a blockbuster clash that lived up to its billing, India outclassed traditional rivals Pakistan by 61 runs in a high-intensity 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match at the R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. The emphatic victory has all but confirmed India’s qualification for the Super-8 stage of the tournament.

After losing the toss, India were asked to bat first. Despite an early setback, the Indian batting unit responded with authority. The highlight of the innings was a stunning knock from Ishan Kishan, who dismantled the Pakistan bowling attack with fearless strokeplay. The left-hander smashed 77 runs off just 40 deliveries, sending the ball to all parts of the ground and shifting the momentum firmly in India’s favour.

Following Kishan’s dismissal, captain Suryakumar Yadav anchored the innings with a calm and controlled approach. Partnering with Tilak Varma, Suryakumar added valuable runs during the middle overs, scoring 32 off 29 balls. Their steady partnership ensured India crossed the 170-run mark. India eventually posted 175 for the loss of their wickets in the allotted 20 overs, their highest-ever T20 World Cup total against Pakistan.

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Chasing a challenging target of 176, Pakistan faltered right from the start against a disciplined and aggressive Indian bowling attack. Hardik Pandya provided the early breakthrough, claiming two crucial wickets while conceding just 16 runs in his three overs.

Jasprit Bumrah then unleashed his trademark pace and precision, removing key batters Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha to tighten India’s grip on the contest. The spinners further dismantled Pakistan’s chase, with Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy weaving magic. Varun turned the game decisively in India’s favour by picking up two wickets in a single over, triggering a collapse.

Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 114, sealing a comprehensive 61-run victory for India. The triumph significantly boosts India’s confidence as they head into their next fixture against the Netherlands on February 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.