Team India made history with a thrilling six-run victory over Pakistan in their high-octane ICC T20 World Cup2024 clash. This remarkable win saw India defend the lowest total ever in the tournament’s history, becoming a momentous occasion for Indian cricket.
Historic Victory for India
Firstly,in a nail-biting encounter, India defended a target of 120 runs, restricting Pakistan to 113/7 at the completion of their 20 overs. This victory tied India with Sri Lanka for the lowest total defended in T20 World Cup history, matching Sri Lanka’s feat of defending 120 runs against New Zealand by bundling them out for 60 runs in the 2014 edition.
India’s Record-Defending Performance
This win also marked India’s lowest total defended in T20I cricket. Previously, India had defended a target of 139 runs against Zimbabwe in 2016, restricting them to 135/6 and winning by three runs. The recent victory underscores India’s capability to perform under pressure and defend modest totals.
Dominance Over Pakistan
With this victory, India secured their seventh win over Pakistan in ICC T20 World Cup2024 history, with Pakistan having won only once, back in the 2021 edition in the UAE by 10 wickets. India’s consistent dominance in these high-stakes matches highlights their prowess and mental fortitude.
Group Standings and Implications
Following this win, India stands at the top of Group A with two wins in two games and a total of four points. Pakistan, on the other hand, is in fourth place, having lost both their games to the USA and India. This loss significantly diminishes Pakistan’s chances of advancing to the knockout stage, making their upcoming matches critical.
Match Overview
Toss and Batting Struggles
Pakistan won the toss and opted to field first. The Indian batting lineup struggled on a tough surface, with star openers Virat Kohli (4) and Rohit Sharma (13) failing to make significant contributions. Rishabh Pant emerged as a standout performer, scoring 42 runs off 31 balls, including six fours. Pant’s partnerships with Axar Patel (20 off 18 balls) and Suryakumar Yadav (7 off 8 balls) were crucial, but the lower middle order crumbled, resulting in India being bowled out for 119 in 19 overs.
Bowling Brilliance by Pakistan
Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah were the top performers for Pakistan, both taking three wickets each for 21 runs. Mohammad Amir added two wickets, while Shaheen Shah Afridi took one. Their disciplined bowling kept the Indian batters in check and set up a challenging but achievable target.
The Run Chase
Measured Approach by Pakistan
However,Pakistan’s run chase began with a measured approach. Mohammad Rizwan held one end steady, scoring 31 runs off 44 balls. However, India’s bowlers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah (3/14) and Hardik Pandya (2/24), kept the pressure on by taking crucial wickets. Key players like Babar Azam (13), Fakhar Zaman (13), Shadab Khan (4), and Iftikhar Ahmed (5) were dismissed at regular intervals, making the chase increasingly difficult.
Final Over Drama
With 18 runs needed in the final over, Naseem Shah (10*) made a valiant effort to win the match for Pakistan. However, Arshdeep Singh (1/31) held his nerve and ensured Pakistan fell short by six runs, sealing a memorable victory for India.
Player of the Match
Last but not least,Jasprit Bumrah was awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ for his exceptional spell, which played a pivotal role in India’s victory. His ability to take wickets at crucial moments and maintain a tight economy rate was instrumental in defending the low total.
India’s historic victory against Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup2024 not only highlights their ability to perform under pressure but also cements their reputation as a formidable team in world cricket. With this win, India has set a new benchmark in T20I cricket, showcasing their resilience and strategic brilliance. As the tournament progresses, India will aim to maintain their top form and continue their journey towards T20 World Cup glory.
