Arch-rivals Pakistan and India are set to meet at the T20 World Cup in New York on Sunday, marking their 13th encounter in this format. Political tensions limit their matches to international tournaments. Their last meeting was in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Melbourne, which India won. India leads with nine wins to Pakistan’s three in T20 encounters, but their last four matches ended in a draw.
Wily Dhoni:
The first T20 encounter between India and Pakistan at Durban in 2007 ended dramatically in a tie, resolved by a bowl-out, akin to a penalty shoot-out in football. India, led by MS Dhoni, cleverly chose non-specialist bowlers who hit the stumps, clinching victory.
Misbah misfires:
In the 2007 T20 World Cup final in Johannesburg, Pakistan, chasing, faltered despite Misbah-ul-Haq’s efforts. Needing 13 off the last over against Joginder Sharma, Misbah’s attempt at a scoop shot landed in Sreesanth’s hands, sealing India’s win by five runs.
Shaheen strikes:
In a 2021 T20 World Cup group match in Dubai, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s exceptional bowling dismantled India’s top order, including dismissing Rohit Sharma for a duck. Pakistan chased down India’s total comfortably, with Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam leading the charge.
All-round Nawaz:
During the 2022 Asia Cup Super Four clash in Dubai, Mohammad Nawaz’s disciplined bowling and explosive batting guided Pakistan to victory over India. Nawaz’s all-round performance, complemented by Shadab Khan’s spin, secured a crucial win for Pakistan.
‘King Kohli’ at MCG:
In a thrilling encounter during the 2022 T20 World Cup group stage at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Virat Kohli’s masterful innings of 82 not out led India to victory against Pakistan. Despite Pakistan’s early advantage, Kohli’s partnership with Hardik Pandya ensured India’s triumph with a ball to spare.
