India secured a decisive 61-run victory over Pakistan in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, prompting BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla to express strong confidence in the team’s potential to clinch the tournament.
India’s dominant performance not only saw them beat their rivals but also ensured their qualification for the Super 8s. Following the game, Shukla highlighted the win as a significant statement to other teams. He noted the team’s depth and balance, mentioning how various players have made crucial contributions throughout the competition.
“Winning against Pakistan by such a huge margin is a remarkable achievement, and I am fully confident that with the way our boys played, we are on track to win the World Cup,” Shukla commented after the match.
“Sometimes Ishan Kishan shines, sometimes Abhishek, everyone steps up. We have a strong team, and I believe we will win the World Cup,” he added.
Besides Shukla, former India captain Rohit Sharma and ICC Chairman Jay Shah were also in attendance for the match in Colombo.
India’s balanced performances with both bat and ball have established them as one of the favorites in the tournament. With several match-winners in the squad, they are well-positioned as they head into the Super 8 stage.
After winning their first three matches, the Suryakumar Yadav-led team currently leads the Group-A table, becoming the second team, after West Indies, to advance to the next stage of the tournament.
In a strong team effort on a challenging R Premadasa pitch against Pakistan, India batted first and posted 175/7 in their 20 overs. Left-hander Ishan Kishan was the standout performer, scoring 77 runs off just 40 balls, earning him the Player of the Match title.
Next, India will face the Netherlands on February 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad for their final Group-A match.
