T20 World Cup: India Crushes Pakistan by 61 Runs, Qualifies for Super-8
Colombo, February 16, 2026
India delivered a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan at R. Premadasa Stadium, becoming the second team after West Indies to reach T20 World Cup 2026 Super-8 stage. This marks India's third straight win, solidifying Group-A dominance.
Match Summary
Toss & India's Innings: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won toss, elected to field. Abhishek Sharma fell for duck in first over, but Ishan Kishan (77 off 40 balls - fastest T20 WC fifty vs Pakistan) led recovery with Tilak Varma (25), Suryakumar Yadav (32), Shivam Dube (27). India posted 175/7 in 20 overs.
Pakistan Chase Collapses: Needing 176, Pakistan crumbled to 114 all out in 18 overs. Hardik Pandya & Jasprit Bumrah wrecked powerplay (3/13 in 2 overs). Usman Khan fought with 44 but stumped by Axar Patel. Key bowlers: Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakaravarthy (2 wickets each).
Key Performances
| Player |
Team |
Performance |
| Ishan Kishan |
IND |
77 (40 balls) - Match-winning blitz |
| Hardik Pandya |
IND |
Early wickets, tight bowling |
| Jasprit Bumrah |
IND |
Powerplay devastation |
| Salman Ali Agha |
PAK |
3/25 - Lone bright spot |
| Usman Khan |
PAK |
44 - Top score in vain |
Historic Dominance
India now leads Pakistan 8-1 in T20 World Cup clashes (14-3 overall T20Is). Super-8 progression eliminates Namibia, Oman, Nepal. Fans celebrate dismantling arch-rivals while advancing title charge.