India Seal Super Eight Spot With Dominant Win
India crushed Pakistan by 61 runs in their Group A clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The high-stakes encounter was played at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
With this victory, India secured their place in the Super Eight stage. It was their third consecutive win in the group phase. The result reinforced India’s dominance in the tournament.
India posted 175/7 in 20 overs after being asked to bat first. Opener Ishan Kishan led the charge with a blistering 77 off 40 balls. His knock included 10 fours and three sixes.
Pakistan’s spin-heavy attack tried to control the scoring rate. However, India’s middle order ensured a competitive total. Pakistan, in reply, were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. The batting collapse once again exposed familiar weaknesses.
Former Cricketers Slam Pakistan’s Performance
The defeat triggered sharp reactions from former players and analysts. Ex-Test cricketer Mohammad Yousuf called for major changes in the T20 squad. He questioned the continued selection of senior players.
“Time’s up for Shaheen, Babar and Shadab,” Yousuf wrote on X. He stressed the need for accountability and fresh talent. He said Pakistan cannot rely on wins against weaker teams.
Former Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ramiz Raja also criticised the batting unit. He pointed out that India have used a similar bowling attack for years. Yet Pakistan’s batters have failed to show improvement. He described the performance as a disaster.
Ex-opener Ahmed Shehzad echoed similar concerns. He slammed team selection and urged immediate changes. He demanded opportunities for players like Fakhar, Nafay and Salman.
Debate Over Strategy and Mental Strength
The criticism was not limited to Pakistani voices. Former England captain Michael Vaughan said India appear to intimidate Pakistan on the field. He praised India’s mentality and ability to handle pressure in big matches.
Cricketer Sohaib Maqsood offered a different view. He said the bowling strategy was equally responsible for the loss. According to him, the pitch was not a 180-run surface. He argued that even 140 could have been challenging to chase. He questioned the decision to bowl first after winning the toss.
The heavy defeat has intensified scrutiny on Pakistan’s senior players, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam and Shadab Khan. Fans and experts are demanding a clear strategy and consistent performances against top-tier teams.
India, meanwhile, continue to build momentum in the T20 World Cup 2026. Their balanced attack and confident batting lineup have made them strong title contenders.
For Pakistan, the road ahead looks challenging. The team faces mounting pressure to rebuild, rethink tactics and restore confidence before it is too late in the tournament.
