In a historic match, Team India secured a thrilling six-run victory over Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup, setting a new record for defending the lowest total in the tournament’s history. This win marks another milestone for India in T20 cricket and underscores their strong performance in high-pressure situations.
India, batting first, managed to post a modest total of 120 runs on a challenging pitch. The Indian top order struggled, with star openers Virat Kohli scoring only 4 runs and Rohit Sharma managing 13 runs.
Despite these setbacks, Rishabh Pant provided some stability with a crucial knock of 42 runs off 31 balls, which included six boundaries. Pant’s efforts were supported by Axar Patel, who scored 20 runs, and Suryakumar Yadav, who added seven runs. However, the lower middle order failed to capitalise, and India was bowled out for 119 runs in 19 overs.
Pakistan's bowling attack was led by Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, both taking three wickets each and conceding only 21 runs. Mohammed Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi also contributed, with Amir taking two wickets and Afridi securing one.
In response, Pakistan's chase began cautiously. Mohammed Rizwan anchored the innings with a patient 31 runs off 44 balls. However, India's bowlers kept the pressure on, with Jasprit Bumrah leading the charge.
Bumrah's exceptional spell of 3/14 was pivotal, earning him the ‘Player of the Match’ award. Hardik Pandya also played a crucial role, taking 2/24, and Arshdeep Singh held his nerve in the final over to ensure Pakistan fell short by six runs, finishing at 113/7.
This victory not only highlights India’s bowling prowess but also sets a new record in T20 World Cup history. The previous record for the lowest total defended in the tournament was also 120 runs, achieved by Sri Lanka against New Zealand in 2014. Additionally, India surpassed their own record for the lowest total defended in T20I cricket, previously set at 139 runs against Zimbabwe in 2016.
With this win, India sits at the top of Group A with four points from two matches, enhancing their prospects for advancing to the knockout stages. Conversely, Pakistan’s chances look bleak, having lost both their matches to the USA and India.
The match began with Pakistan winning the toss and elected to field. The tough batting conditions were evident as India’s top order faltered. Despite a valiant effort by Pant and some support from the middle order, the team could not post a significant total. Pakistan’s bowlers exploited the conditions well, making it difficult for the Indian batsmen to score freely.
Pakistan’s chase, though measured, was disrupted by India’s disciplined bowling attack. Rizwan’s steady innings provided a glimmer of hope, but regular wickets kept Pakistan in check.
Key dismissals of Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, and Iftikhar Ahmed by Bumrah and Pandya turned the game in India’s favour. Naseem Shah’s late attempt to steer Pakistan to victory fell short, sealing a memorable win for India.
This match will be remembered for India's resilience and tactical brilliance, defending a seemingly low total against a formidable opponent. As the tournament progresses, India’s performance in this game will serve as a confidence booster and a testament to their ability to thrive under pressure.
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