T20 World Cup: India Crushes Pakistan by 61 Runs, Qualifies for Super-8

Published on: 16 Feb 2026 at 06:26 AM

Published by: thefactnews

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.