India defeated Pakistan by 61 runs in Colombo, solidifying their position in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
The match was notable more for off-field drama than on-field action. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha made several tactical errors, despite taking an early wicket of Abhishek Sharma in the first over.
After winning the toss, Pakistan chose to bowl first, a questionable decision by Agha. Following Abhishek’s wicket, he continued with Shaheen Afridi, who conceded 15 runs in his first over, despite Ishan Kishan’s prowess against pace.
Ishan Kishan stood out with a remarkable 77 runs off 40 balls. Other contributions came from Tilak Varma (25 off 24), Suryakumar Yadav (32 off 29), Shivam Dube (27), and Rinku Singh (11), helping India post a total of 175-7, the highest ever against Pakistan in T20 World Cups on a slow Colombo pitch.
Saim Ayub was impressive for Pakistan, taking three key wickets, while Agha, Afridi, and Usman Tariq each chipped in with one wicket.
During the chase, Hardik Pandya dismissed Sahibzada Farhan early. Most Pakistan batters struggled to adapt to the situation, playing recklessly. Only Usman Khan (44 off 34) and Shaheen (23 off 19) managed to score above 15 runs as India’s bowlers maintained pressure throughout.
Hardik, Bumrah, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy each took two wickets, while Tilak Varma and Kuldeep Yadav contributed one wicket apiece.
Full Scorecard – India vs Pakistan ICC T20 World Cup 2026, February 15
India 175 for 7 (Kishan 77, Suryakumar 32, Ayub 3-25) beat Pakistan 114 (Usman 44, Hardik 2-16, Bumrah 2-17, Varun 2-17, Axar 2-29) by 61 runs
Match Highlights & Key Moments
Abhishek’s early exit gave Pakistan hope, but Ishan Kishan’s powerful innings shifted momentum decisively. Saim Ayub’s double strike briefly raised concerns for India about a 200-plus score.
Pandya’s early wicket set a harsh tone for Pakistan, and Bumrah’s quick two wickets crushed their aspirations. Usman Khan’s innings stood out for the Pakistan side.
Player of the Match
Ishan Kishan earned the Player of the Match award for his 77 runs off 40 balls.
What This Result Means for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026
This victory secured a Super 8 berth for India in the tournament.
For Pakistan, the loss means they must win their next match against Namibia to avoid elimination.
FAQs – Yesterday’s India vs Pakistan ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Q1: Who won the India vs Pakistan match?
A1: India won by 61 runs on February 15, 2026, in Colombo.
Q2: Who was the Player of the Match?
A2: Ishan Kishan received the Player of the Match title for scoring 77 runs.
Q3: What was the match’s final score?
A3: India 175 for 7 (Kishan 77, Suryakumar 32, Ayub 3-25); Pakistan 114 (Usman 44, Hardik 2-16, Bumrah 2-17, Varun 2-17, Axar 2-29).
