When it comes to ICC events, an India vs Pakistan match is usually the biggest attraction, as the rivalry draws huge global interest, especially because the two sides have not played a bilateral series since 2012 due to political tensions. With the ICC announcing new formats for the 2027 ODI World Cup and the 2028 T20 World Cup on Wednesday, there is now a possibility that cricket’s biggest rivalry could take place more than once in the same tournament.<h3>ODI World Cup 2027</h3>Under the new format, 12 teams from the 14 participating nations will move into the Super Seven stage. Before that, the teams finishing 12th, 13th and 14th will play a new “Super Series” round, with one team qualifying for the main competition.&nbsp;&nbsp;The top four teams from the Super Seven stage will then advance to the semi-finals.&nbsp;If India and Pakistan are placed in the same group in the opening stage, as has often happened in ICC tournaments, both teams would still be expected to reach the Super Seven stage unless there is a major upset.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since the Super Seven is a round-robin league, they would meet again, meaning the rivals could play each other at least twice during the tournament.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-odi-all-rounders-rankings-axar-patel-storms-into-top-10-after-england-heroics-1784125169574">ICC ODI all-rounders rankings: Axar Patel storms into top 10 after England heroics</a>&nbsp;If both teams also qualify for the semi-finals or even the final, another meeting could be possible depending on the draw and results.<h3>T20 World Cup 2028</h3>The 2028 T20 World Cup will still feature 20 teams, but they will now be divided into five groups of four.&nbsp;If India and Pakistan are drawn in the same group, they would meet in the opening stage. The top two teams from each group will then qualify for the Super 10 stage.&nbsp;The 10 qualified teams will be split into two groups of five. The winners of the two groups will go straight to the semi-finals, while the second and third-placed teams will play Eliminator matches. The winners of those matches will complete the semi-final lineup.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-unveils-super-series-and-super-7-format-for-odi-world-cup-2027-1784118704257">ICC unveils 'Super Series' and 'Super 7' format for ODI World Cup 2027</a>&nbsp;This format also leaves room for multiple India-Pakistan clashes, as the Super 10 groups will be decided through ICC rankings-based seeding, the two teams could end up in the same group again and meet for a second time.&nbsp;&nbsp;If both continue their winning run, they could even face each other again in the semi-finals or the final, making three meetings in a single tournament a real possibility.

The ICC’s new formats for the 2027 ODI World Cup and 2028 T20 World Cup could lead to multiple India-Pakistan clashes in the same tournament.

When it comes to ICC events, an India vs Pakistan match is usually the biggest attraction, as the rivalry draws huge global interest, especially because the two sides have not played a bilateral series since 2012 due to political tensions. With the ICC announcing new formats for the 2027 ODI World Cup and the 2028 T20 World Cup on Wednesday, there is now a possibility that cricket’s biggest rivalry could take place more than once in the same tournament. ODI World Cup 2027 Under the new format, 12 teams from the 14 participating nations will move into the Super Seven stage. Before that, the teams finishing 12th, 13th and 14th will play a new “Super Series” round, with one team qualifying for the main competition. The top four teams from the Super Seven stage will then advance to the semi-finals. If India and Pakistan are placed in the same group in the opening stage, as has often happened in ICC tournaments, both teams would still be expected to reach the Super Seven stage unless there is a major upset. Since the Super Seven is a round-robin league, they would meet again, meaning the rivals could play each other at least twice during the tournament. Also Read - ICC ODI all-rounders rankings: Axar Patel storms into top 10 after England heroics If both teams also qualify for the semi-finals or even the final, another meeting could be possible depending on the draw and results. T20 World Cup 2028 The 2028 T20 World Cup will still feature 20 teams, but they will now be divided into five groups of four. If India and Pakistan are drawn in the same group, they would meet in the opening stage. The top two teams from each group will then qualify for the Super 10 stage. The 10 qualified teams will be split into two groups of five. The winners of the two groups will go straight to the semi-finals, while the second and third-placed teams will play Eliminator matches. The winners of those matches will complete the semi-final lineup. Also Read - ICC unveils 'Super Series' and 'Super 7' format for ODI World Cup 2027 This format also leaves room for multiple India-Pakistan clashes, as the Super 10 groups will be decided through ICC rankings-based seeding, the two teams could end up in the same group again and meet for a second time. If both continue their winning run, they could even face each other again in the semi-finals or the final, making three meetings in a single tournament a real possibility.

The ICC’s new formats for the 2027 ODI World Cup and 2028 T20 World Cup could lead to multiple India-Pakistan clashes in the same tournament.

How many times could India and Pakistan meet under new World Cup format?

Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, India will begin their Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (Jun 14) at Edgbaston. While India have enjoyed the better record in this rivalry, matches between the two teams always attract huge attention both on and off the field. Ahead of the game, one of the main talking points has been whether the players will take part in the traditional pre- or post-match handshake.&nbsp;Since the Men’s Asia Cup last year, Indian and Pakistani players across both men’s and women’s teams have generally avoided from exchanging handshakes. Similar scenes were witnessed during several major events, including the Women’s World Cup, U19 World Cup, Rising Stars Asia Cup and Men’s T20 World Cup.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-pak-womens-t20-world-cup-2026-rohit-sharma-gautam-gambhir-shubman-gill-rally-behind-women-in-blue-1781429563683">IND vs PAK, Women’s T20 World Cup: Rohit, Gambhir, Gill rally behind Women in Blue</a>&nbsp;Speaking before the match, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur was questioned about the possibility of a handshake and whether the BCCI had provided any guidance on the matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Well, I think we are here for cricket, and we only talk about cricket; except for cricket, we don’t talk about anything, and I don’t even think about anything except cricket. Cricket has been our dream from day one, and we only talk about it. For tomorrow’s game, we are thinking of it as just another game we are going to play," Harmanpreet told reporters.&nbsp;“Definitely pressure is going to be there, which I earlier agreed to that, whenever we play against Pakistan, pressure will be there, but at the same time it’s only about how we are going to enjoy that pressure because in any International game, pressure is going to be there; it’s only about giving your 100% in that game and enjoying every moment," she added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-lionel-messi-trains-hard-ahead-of-argentina-s-tournament-opener-1781423577506">FIFA 2026: Lionel Messi trains hard ahead of Argentina's tournament opener</a>&nbsp;On the field, India enter the game as strong favourites, supported by a strong record and a commanding head-to-head advantage. They have won 13 of the 16 T20Is played against Pakistan and hold a 6-2 edge in Women’s T20 World Cup meetings. Even so, Harmanpreet admitted that matches between the two nations comes with added expectations and pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I won’t say there’s no pressure; there is pressure. Since I started watching cricket as a supporter, I have felt that pressure, and now that we play, it’s even more. But at the same time, we always say that the more we enjoy this game, the better it is for us, because we are the lucky ones who are picked for this big occasion, and we just want to enjoy ourselves on the field," said Harmanpreet.

The question of whether India and Pakistan players will shake hands has become a major talking point ahead of their Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 encounter.

Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, India will begin their Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (Jun 14) at Edgbaston. While India have enjoyed the better record in this rivalry, matches between the two teams always attract huge attention both on and off the field. Ahead of the game, one of the main talking points has been whether the players will take part in the traditional pre- or post-match handshake. Since the Men’s Asia Cup last year, Indian and Pakistani players across both men’s and women’s teams have generally avoided from exchanging handshakes. Similar scenes were witnessed during several major events, including the Women’s World Cup, U19 World Cup, Rising Stars Asia Cup and Men’s T20 World Cup. Also Read - IND vs PAK, Women’s T20 World Cup: Rohit, Gambhir, Gill rally behind Women in Blue Speaking before the match, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur was questioned about the possibility of a handshake and whether the BCCI had provided any guidance on the matter. “Well, I think we are here for cricket, and we only talk about cricket; except for cricket, we don’t talk about anything, and I don’t even think about anything except cricket. Cricket has been our dream from day one, and we only talk about it. For tomorrow’s game, we are thinking of it as just another game we are going to play," Harmanpreet told reporters. “Definitely pressure is going to be there, which I earlier agreed to that, whenever we play against Pakistan, pressure will be there, but at the same time it’s only about how we are going to enjoy that pressure because in any International game, pressure is going to be there; it’s only about giving your 100% in that game and enjoying every moment," she added. Also Read - FIFA 2026: Lionel Messi trains hard ahead of Argentina's tournament opener On the field, India enter the game as strong favourites, supported by a strong record and a commanding head-to-head advantage. They have won 13 of the 16 T20Is played against Pakistan and hold a 6-2 edge in Women’s T20 World Cup meetings. Even so, Harmanpreet admitted that matches between the two nations comes with added expectations and pressure. “I won’t say there’s no pressure; there is pressure. Since I started watching cricket as a supporter, I have felt that pressure, and now that we play, it’s even more. But at the same time, we always say that the more we enjoy this game, the better it is for us, because we are the lucky ones who are picked for this big occasion, and we just want to enjoy ourselves on the field," said Harmanpreet.

The question of whether India and Pakistan players will shake hands has become a major talking point ahead of their Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 encounter.

Women's T20 World Cup: Will Harmanpreet Kaur's team India shake hands with Pakistan? Here's what she said

Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, India will begin their T20 World Cup journey with a high-profile clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (Jun 14) at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The match is expected to be a key opening fixture for the reigning ODI World Cup champions. India have historically dominated this rivalry in T20Is, winning 13 of the 16 meetings between the two sides and their latest encounter came during the 2024 T20 World Cup in Dubai, where India cruised to a six-wicket victory.&nbsp;Since then, India have strengthened their reputation as one of the most reliable white-ball teams in the world, a status reinforced by their ODI World Cup triumph. With the majority of that title-winning squad still available, the team will be eager to convert its success into a maiden T20 World Cup crown.&nbsp;A strong start from opening pair Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma could prove vital against a Pakistan attack spearheaded by captain Fatima Sana.&nbsp;Sana has enjoyed an impressive run of form over the past year, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. The all-rounder has averaged more than 50 with the bat while maintaining a bowling average below 25.&nbsp;She is expected to be a major threat, particularly against an Indian bowling unit that will be missing injured duo Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam.&nbsp;As the crucial Women's T20 World Cup 2026 clash between India and Pakistan approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-vs-morocco-group-c-fifa-world-cup-2026-when-and-where-to-watch-matches-in-india-1781334860220">BRA vs MAR, Group C, FIFA World Cup 2026: When and where to watch live streaming in India?</a><h2>India vs Pakistan, Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details</h2><h2>When will the IND vs PAK, Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match be played?</h2>The Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan will be played on Sunday (Jun 14, 2026). The toss will take place at 06:30 pm IST.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-much-does-the-fifa-world-cup-trophy-cost-in-2026-the-answer-may-surprise-you-1781271547454">How much does the FIFA World Cup trophy cost in 2026? The answer may surprise you</a><h2>Where is the match being played?</h2>The match will be held at Edgbaston in Birmingham.<h2>Where can fans watch the match on television?</h2>The live telecast of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan will be available on Star Sports in India.<h2>Where to livestream IND vs PAK, Women's T20 World Cup 2026?</h2>The livestream of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan will be available on the JioHotstar app and website.<h2>IND vs PAK Squad</h2>India: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, Shree Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Nandani Sharma, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh, Kranti Gaud, Shreyanka Patil and Radha Yadav Pakistan: Fatima Sana (C), Gull Feroza, Ayesha Zafar, Iram Javed, Eyman Fatima, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Parvaiz, Saira Jabeen, Muneeba Ali, Tuba Hassan, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig and Tasmia Rubab

As the crucial Women's T20 World Cup 2026 clash between India and Pakistan approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, India will begin their T20 World Cup journey with a high-profile clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (Jun 14) at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The match is expected to be a key opening fixture for the reigning ODI World Cup champions. India have historically dominated this rivalry in T20Is, winning 13 of the 16 meetings between the two sides and their latest encounter came during the 2024 T20 World Cup in Dubai, where India cruised to a six-wicket victory. Since then, India have strengthened their reputation as one of the most reliable white-ball teams in the world, a status reinforced by their ODI World Cup triumph. With the majority of that title-winning squad still available, the team will be eager to convert its success into a maiden T20 World Cup crown. A strong start from opening pair Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma could prove vital against a Pakistan attack spearheaded by captain Fatima Sana. Sana has enjoyed an impressive run of form over the past year, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. The all-rounder has averaged more than 50 with the bat while maintaining a bowling average below 25. She is expected to be a major threat, particularly against an Indian bowling unit that will be missing injured duo Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam. As the crucial Women's T20 World Cup 2026 clash between India and Pakistan approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India. Also Read - BRA vs MAR, Group C, FIFA World Cup 2026: When and where to watch live streaming in India? India vs Pakistan, Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details When will the IND vs PAK, Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match be played? The Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan will be played on Sunday (Jun 14, 2026). The toss will take place at 06:30 pm IST. Also Read - How much does the FIFA World Cup trophy cost in 2026? The answer may surprise you Where is the match being played? The match will be held at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Where can fans watch the match on television? The live telecast of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan will be available on Star Sports in India. Where to livestream IND vs PAK, Women's T20 World Cup 2026? The livestream of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan will be available on the JioHotstar app and website. IND vs PAK Squad India: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, Shree Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Nandani Sharma, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh, Kranti Gaud, Shreyanka Patil and Radha Yadav Pakistan: Fatima Sana (C), Gull Feroza, Ayesha Zafar, Iram Javed, Eyman Fatima, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Parvaiz, Saira Jabeen, Muneeba Ali, Tuba Hassan, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig and Tasmia Rubab

As the crucial Women's T20 World Cup 2026 clash between India and Pakistan approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

IND vs PAK, Women's T20 World Cup 2026: When and where to watch live streaming in India?

The 2026 T20 World Cup is reaching its final phase as teams battle for a place in the semifinals, including big names like India, Pakistan, and others. However, the eyes of the cricket fraternity will be on the India vs Pakistan clash, which is a treat for fans from both nations as well as neutrals. However, the fixture is unlikely to take place in the semis, meaning the only possibility that both India and Pakistan could play is in the final.<h2>Here's why India vs Pakistan clash is unlikely in semifinal</h2>As per the ICC guidelines, semifinalists of the T20 World Cup will be determined by the table toppers of the two Super 8 groups. According to the format, group winners will face group runners-up in the semifinal, meaning India have to finish as group winners and Pakistan as group runners-up or vice-versa. However, that scenario is now unlikely, with both India and Pakistan unlikely to finish in the opposite rankings, while a bigger picture could also see both teams missing out on the semifinal altogether.<h2>What is the current scenario?</h2>At the time of writing on the morning of Thursday (Feb 26), before the South Africa vs West Indies Super 8 clash in Group 1, both India and Pakistan sit in non-qualifying positions. Wednesday’s results in Group 2 meant Pakistan will no longer finish in the top spot and the best they can finish is runners-up. This means, for an India vs Pakistan match to happen in the semifinal, the Men in Blue will have to finish as Group 1 winners.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Can India finish as Group 1 winners?</h2>Technically, India can still finish as Group 1 winners, but it will require a solid case with a specific set of results to be achieved. After Sunday’s defeat to South Africa, Suryakumar Yadav and Co can finish on a maximum of four points, meaning the Proteas and the West Indies should lose at least one match in the Super 8 stage. One part of the equation will be achieved on Thursday as South Africa and the West Indies square off in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;The winner of the South Africa vs West Indies match should lose on Sunday, while India should win both their matches. Assuming West Indies beat South Africa and then India beat the West Indies, the final Group 1 table will see three teams locked up on four points each (also assuming South Africa beat Zimbabwe on Sunday).&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;This will mean India, South Africa and the West Indies will finish with four points and net run rate will decide the group winners. So only victories with a big margin will see India finish as group winners and retain a chance of an India vs Pakistan clash in the semis.However, with NRR not in India’s favour and both the West Indies and Zimbabwe playing a good brand of cricket, India may achieve the points tally but may miss out on NRR. This will therefore mean that India vs Pakistan is unlikely in the semis.

Semifinalists of the T20 World Cup 2026 will be determined by the table toppers of the two Super 8 groups. According to the format, group winners will face group runners-up in the semifinal, meaning India have to finish as group winners and Pakistan as group runners-up or vice-versa.

The 2026 T20 World Cup is reaching its final phase as teams battle for a place in the semifinals, including big names like India, Pakistan, and others. However, the eyes of the cricket fraternity will be on the India vs Pakistan clash, which is a treat for fans from both nations as well as neutrals. However, the fixture is unlikely to take place in the semis, meaning the only possibility that both India and Pakistan could play is in the final. Here's why India vs Pakistan clash is unlikely in semifinal As per the ICC guidelines, semifinalists of the T20 World Cup will be determined by the table toppers of the two Super 8 groups. According to the format, group winners will face group runners-up in the semifinal, meaning India have to finish as group winners and Pakistan as group runners-up or vice-versa. However, that scenario is now unlikely, with both India and Pakistan unlikely to finish in the opposite rankings, while a bigger picture could also see both teams missing out on the semifinal altogether. What is the current scenario? At the time of writing on the morning of Thursday (Feb 26), before the South Africa vs West Indies Super 8 clash in Group 1, both India and Pakistan sit in non-qualifying positions. Wednesday’s results in Group 2 meant Pakistan will no longer finish in the top spot and the best they can finish is runners-up. This means, for an India vs Pakistan match to happen in the semifinal, the Men in Blue will have to finish as Group 1 winners. Can India finish as Group 1 winners? Technically, India can still finish as Group 1 winners, but it will require a solid case with a specific set of results to be achieved. After Sunday’s defeat to South Africa, Suryakumar Yadav and Co can finish on a maximum of four points, meaning the Proteas and the West Indies should lose at least one match in the Super 8 stage. One part of the equation will be achieved on Thursday as South Africa and the West Indies square off in Ahmedabad. The winner of the South Africa vs West Indies match should lose on Sunday, while India should win both their matches. Assuming West Indies beat South Africa and then India beat the West Indies, the final Group 1 table will see three teams locked up on four points each (also assuming South Africa beat Zimbabwe on Sunday). ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli This will mean India, South Africa and the West Indies will finish with four points and net run rate will decide the group winners. So only victories with a big margin will see India finish as group winners and retain a chance of an India vs Pakistan clash in the semis. However, with NRR not in India’s favour and both the West Indies and Zimbabwe playing a good brand of cricket, India may achieve the points tally but may miss out on NRR. This will therefore mean that India vs Pakistan is unlikely in the semis.

Semifinalists of the T20 World Cup 2026 will be determined by the table toppers of the two Super 8 groups. According to the format, group winners will face group runners-up in the semifinal, meaning India have to finish as group winners and Pakistan as group runners-up or vice-versa.

T20 World Cup 2026: Here's why India vs Pakistan clash is unlikely in semifinal

The Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 started with a washout on Saturday (Feb 21) as New Zealand and Pakistan shared the spoils in Colombo a rain played spoilsport. However, the eyes of the world will be on both India and Pakistan as the two traditional rivals could face off in the knockout stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, there will be a certain set of results that need to be achieved if the two are to meet in the semis or the final of the tournament.<h2>Here’s how India vs Pakistan could take place in semis</h2>As things stand, the format of the semifinal is simple, winner of group number one of the Super 8 stage faces the runner-up side of the other group. This means that either India or Pakistan have to win their group while the other side should finish as runners-up. This means, in case India win their group, Pakistan must finish runners-up in their Super 8 group.&nbsp;However, if Pakistan win their Super 8 group, India should finish runners-up in their group, which make the fixture possible.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>How could India and Pakistan meet in the final?</h2>In order to meet in the final, both India and Pakistan must finish in the same position in the top two of their Super 8 group. However, they should avoid meeting in the semifinal to have any chances of playing in the final. For this to happen, both India and Pakistan should finish as group winners or if not, they both should finish group runners-up.&nbsp;If one of the above set of results is achieved, both teams will qualify for the semifinal but avoid facing each other. On the other hand, both teams should then win their respective semifinal to reach the final and play in the summit clash.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>Where would India vs Pakistan clashes take place?</h2>In case Pakistan reach the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal, they will play in Colombo as per an agreement between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Even in the case of an India vs Pakistan semifinal, the match will take place in Colombo as per the natural venue agreement between the stakeholders.&nbsp;In case both India and Pakistan are drawn in two different semifinals, India will play their semifinal in Mumbai, while Pakistan will play their clash in Colombo.&nbsp;This agreement also extends to the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 as well. In case Pakistan reach the final, the summit clash will take place in Colombo. In this case, if the India vs Pakistan clash takes place in the final, it will happen in Colombo instead of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 8.&nbsp;However, if Pakistan fail to reach the final, the final will take place in Ahmedabad.

As things stand, the format of the semifinal is simple, winner of group number one of the Super 8 stage faces the runner-up side of the other group. This means that either India or Pakistan have to win their group while the other side should finish as runners-up. 

The Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 started with a washout on Saturday (Feb 21) as New Zealand and Pakistan shared the spoils in Colombo a rain played spoilsport. However, the eyes of the world will be on both India and Pakistan as the two traditional rivals could face off in the knockout stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, there will be a certain set of results that need to be achieved if the two are to meet in the semis or the final of the tournament. Here’s how India vs Pakistan could take place in semis As things stand, the format of the semifinal is simple, winner of group number one of the Super 8 stage faces the runner-up side of the other group. This means that either India or Pakistan have to win their group while the other side should finish as runners-up. This means, in case India win their group, Pakistan must finish runners-up in their Super 8 group. However, if Pakistan win their Super 8 group, India should finish runners-up in their group, which make the fixture possible. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds How could India and Pakistan meet in the final? In order to meet in the final, both India and Pakistan must finish in the same position in the top two of their Super 8 group. However, they should avoid meeting in the semifinal to have any chances of playing in the final. For this to happen, both India and Pakistan should finish as group winners or if not, they both should finish group runners-up. If one of the above set of results is achieved, both teams will qualify for the semifinal but avoid facing each other. On the other hand, both teams should then win their respective semifinal to reach the final and play in the summit clash. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Where would India vs Pakistan clashes take place? In case Pakistan reach the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal, they will play in Colombo as per an agreement between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Even in the case of an India vs Pakistan semifinal, the match will take place in Colombo as per the natural venue agreement between the stakeholders. In case both India and Pakistan are drawn in two different semifinals, India will play their semifinal in Mumbai, while Pakistan will play their clash in Colombo. This agreement also extends to the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 as well. In case Pakistan reach the final, the summit clash will take place in Colombo. In this case, if the India vs Pakistan clash takes place in the final, it will happen in Colombo instead of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 8. However, if Pakistan fail to reach the final, the final will take place in Ahmedabad.

As things stand, the format of the semifinal is simple, winner of group number one of the Super 8 stage faces the runner-up side of the other group. This means that either India or Pakistan have to win their group while the other side should finish as runners-up.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Here's how India and Pakistan could meet in semifinal, final

India defeated Pakistan in a one-sided contest on Sunday (Feb 15) as the Men in Blue continued their unbeaten streak in the tournament, now stretching their winning run to 12 (after the Netherlands win). Having topped their group, India are now eying a swift run to the semifinal of the T20 World Cup as they prepare to face South Africa in Ahmedabad on Sunday. However, it is the off-field records that are making the rounds with India vs Pakistan clash viewership crossing records and surpassing the 2024 final, which was held between India and South Africa.<h2>India vs Pakistan breaks viewership records</h2>JioStar, the official digital and broadcast partner of the T20 World Cup 2026, announced that the India vs Pakistan match on JioHotstar set historic milestones on reach and consumption. The match recorded an unprecedented digital reach of 163 million, making it the highest match reach for any ICC event in the T20 format, even surpassing the viewership for the T20 World Cup 2024 final between India and South Africa. The scintillating performance by India also ensured a 56 per cent growth in reach over India vs Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024 on digital.&nbsp;On mobile, the game clocked the highest match reach in the league stage of any ICC T20 event and 1.2x more than the last India-Pakistan clash at the T20 World Cup 2024. Recognised as the Greatest Rivalry in cricket, the India-Pakistan contest demonstrated its unmatched appeal as fans converged on JioHotstar. On CTV, the match reach was 2.4x higher than the India-Pakistan contest of the 2024 edition. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The match generated a staggering 20 billion minutes of total watch time across all screens, underscoring the massive depth of fan engagement. This led to a 42 per cent increase in consumption compared to the previous edition’s fixture, driven by the Indian national cricket team’s dominant performance as they extended their head-to-head record over Pakistan at the T20 World Cup to 8-1.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;On linear TV, the highly-anticipated match delivered equally stellar performance, clocking a TVR growth of 71 per cent to become the highest-rated India-Pakistan T20 contest since 2021. The record-breaking engagement on linear TV highlighted the sustained power of traditional broadcast in delivering a massive, collective viewing experience.&nbsp;With associate nations competing hard and putting up a show in this edition, the cumulative reach of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the end of the group stage is set to better that of the entire last edition on digital already.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;“The build-up to the India vs Pakistan game at the T20 World Cup 2026 and the match itself had all the ingredients of a spectacle. The record-breaking reach and consumption reflect the scale at which fans all over engage with this tournament across platforms,” said Anup Govindan, Head – Sales, Sports, JioStar. “This tournament has already delivered thrilling moments for fans worldwide, and the response to the India-Pakistan clash sets the tone for an exciting ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with the best yet to come.”

The India vs Pakistan match recorded an unprecedented digital reach of 163 million, making it the highest match reach for any ICC event in the T20 format, even surpassing the viewership for the T20 World Cup 2024 final between India and South Africa. 

India defeated Pakistan in a one-sided contest on Sunday (Feb 15) as the Men in Blue continued their unbeaten streak in the tournament, now stretching their winning run to 12 (after the Netherlands win). Having topped their group, India are now eying a swift run to the semifinal of the T20 World Cup as they prepare to face South Africa in Ahmedabad on Sunday. However, it is the off-field records that are making the rounds with India vs Pakistan clash viewership crossing records and surpassing the 2024 final, which was held between India and South Africa. India vs Pakistan breaks viewership records JioStar, the official digital and broadcast partner of the T20 World Cup 2026, announced that the India vs Pakistan match on JioHotstar set historic milestones on reach and consumption. The match recorded an unprecedented digital reach of 163 million, making it the highest match reach for any ICC event in the T20 format, even surpassing the viewership for the T20 World Cup 2024 final between India and South Africa. The scintillating performance by India also ensured a 56 per cent growth in reach over India vs Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024 on digital. On mobile, the game clocked the highest match reach in the league stage of any ICC T20 event and 1.2x more than the last India-Pakistan clash at the T20 World Cup 2024. Recognised as the Greatest Rivalry in cricket, the India-Pakistan contest demonstrated its unmatched appeal as fans converged on JioHotstar. On CTV, the match reach was 2.4x higher than the India-Pakistan contest of the 2024 edition. The match generated a staggering 20 billion minutes of total watch time across all screens, underscoring the massive depth of fan engagement. This led to a 42 per cent increase in consumption compared to the previous edition’s fixture, driven by the Indian national cricket team’s dominant performance as they extended their head-to-head record over Pakistan at the T20 World Cup to 8-1. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds On linear TV, the highly-anticipated match delivered equally stellar performance, clocking a TVR growth of 71 per cent to become the highest-rated India-Pakistan T20 contest since 2021. The record-breaking engagement on linear TV highlighted the sustained power of traditional broadcast in delivering a massive, collective viewing experience. With associate nations competing hard and putting up a show in this edition, the cumulative reach of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the end of the group stage is set to better that of the entire last edition on digital already. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli “The build-up to the India vs Pakistan game at the T20 World Cup 2026 and the match itself had all the ingredients of a spectacle. The record-breaking reach and consumption reflect the scale at which fans all over engage with this tournament across platforms,” said Anup Govindan, Head – Sales, Sports, JioStar. “This tournament has already delivered thrilling moments for fans worldwide, and the response to the India-Pakistan clash sets the tone for an exciting ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with the best yet to come.”

The India vs Pakistan match recorded an unprecedented digital reach of 163 million, making it the highest match reach for any ICC event in the T20 format, even surpassing the viewership for the T20 World Cup 2024 final between India and South Africa.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: India vs Pakistan group stage clash breaks viewership record, surpasses 2024 final

The T20 World Cup 2026 group stage is all but with only one match left, Australia vs Oman (Feb 20), which will have no impact on the placing of Super 8 teams. The group matches saw top two teams from each group advance to Super 8 but the pre-seeding done by the ICC has created a situation fans and experts are calling 'nonsense.' After Zimbabwe beat Sri Lanka in Gruop B match on Thursday (Feb 19), pre-seeding meant that all group-topping teams from each group are placed in Super 8 Group X while the second-finishing teams in group-stage are placed in Group Y - prompting a call out against pre-seeding done by the ICC as a means to set up an India vs Pakistan knockout match.<h2>What is pre-seeding in T20 World Cup 2026?</h2>The ICC, while annoucning the groups, fixtures, and schedule for the T20 World Cup 2026, also shared Super 8 groups based on pre-determined and expected results. As per pre-seeding done by the ICC - India (Group A), Australia (Group B), West Indies (Group C), and South Africa (Group D) were placed in Group X and Pakistan (Group A), Sri Lanka (Group B), England (Group C), and New Zealand (Group D) were placed in Group Y.The ICC also said that if any other team qualifies for the Super 8 in place of pre-seeded teams, then the qualified team will take the place of eliminated team in pre-seeded groups.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-unwritten-rule-in-t20-leagues-no-pakistan-player-to-be-picked-in-ipl-linked-hundred-teams-report-1771550279808">'Unwritten rule in T20 leagues': No Pakistan player to be picked in IPL-linked Hundred teams - Report</a>After Zimbabwe went unbeaten in the Group B with wins over Oman, Australia, and Sri Lanka - they ended up qualifying over Australia and finish above Sri Lanka in their group. The result meant Zimbabwe replaced Australia in Group X of Super 8 with India, West Indies and South Africa - all of which also topped their group.Meanwhile, all Group Y Super &nbsp;pre-seeded teams ended up being qualified second in the group-stage - making the Super 8 tougher in one group and slightly easier in the other.<h2>What the fans are saying?</h2>The fans as well as experts have called the pre-seeding with some suggesting that it was done by the ICC to ensure an India vs Pakistan knockout fixture. Here's how the social media erupted:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This pre-seeding format is nonsense. All the group toppers end up together, and finishing first or second means nothing, which is why so many games feel like dead rubbers. It almost looks designed to push big matchups like India vs Pakistan in the knockouts for revenue. <a href="https://t.co/GmuQSH9lsM">pic.twitter.com/GmuQSH9lsM</a>&mdash; Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vipintiwari952/status/2024491835956351244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">School ke saare toppers ek group mein aa gaye… India, Zimbabwe, South Africa, West Indies…all undefeated. All in one group. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a>&mdash; Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/2024501647716864324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">All the table-toppers have ended up in the same Super Eights group... 🤔 <a href="https://t.co/XPWYdGzXHN">pic.twitter.com/XPWYdGzXHN</a>&mdash; Wisden (@WisdenCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/WisdenCricket/status/2024481768674333021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After Zimbabwe went unbeaten in Group B with wins over Oman, Australia, and Sri Lanka - they ended up qualifying over Australia and finish above SL in their group. The result meant Zimbabwe replaced Australia in Group X of Super 8 with India, WI and SA - all of which also topped their group.

The T20 World Cup 2026 group stage is all but with only one match left, Australia vs Oman (Feb 20), which will have no impact on the placing of Super 8 teams. The group matches saw top two teams from each group advance to Super 8 but the pre-seeding done by the ICC has created a situation fans and experts are calling 'nonsense.' After Zimbabwe beat Sri Lanka in Gruop B match on Thursday (Feb 19), pre-seeding meant that all group-topping teams from each group are placed in Super 8 Group X while the second-finishing teams in group-stage are placed in Group Y - prompting a call out against pre-seeding done by the ICC as a means to set up an India vs Pakistan knockout match. What is pre-seeding in T20 World Cup 2026? The ICC, while annoucning the groups, fixtures, and schedule for the T20 World Cup 2026, also shared Super 8 groups based on pre-determined and expected results. As per pre-seeding done by the ICC - India (Group A), Australia (Group B), West Indies (Group C), and South Africa (Group D) were placed in Group X and Pakistan (Group A), Sri Lanka (Group B), England (Group C), and New Zealand (Group D) were placed in Group Y. The ICC also said that if any other team qualifies for the Super 8 in place of pre-seeded teams, then the qualified team will take the place of eliminated team in pre-seeded groups. Also Read - 'Unwritten rule in T20 leagues': No Pakistan player to be picked in IPL-linked Hundred teams - Report After Zimbabwe went unbeaten in the Group B with wins over Oman, Australia, and Sri Lanka - they ended up qualifying over Australia and finish above Sri Lanka in their group. The result meant Zimbabwe replaced Australia in Group X of Super 8 with India, West Indies and South Africa - all of which also topped their group. Meanwhile, all Group Y Super pre-seeded teams ended up being qualified second in the group-stage - making the Super 8 tougher in one group and slightly easier in the other. What the fans are saying? The fans as well as experts have called the pre-seeding with some suggesting that it was done by the ICC to ensure an India vs Pakistan knockout fixture. Here's how the social media erupted:

After Zimbabwe went unbeaten in Group B with wins over Oman, Australia, and Sri Lanka - they ended up qualifying over Australia and finish above SL in their group. The result meant Zimbabwe replaced Australia in Group X of Super 8 with India, WI and SA - all of which also topped their group.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Designed to push IND vs PAK': Dissension enuses after ICC pre-seeding puts all top teams together in Super 8

Pakistan spinner Shadab Khan has hit out at ex-cricketers inlcuding Shadi Afridi and Mohammad Yusuf for criticism of the national team. Pakistan team faced a lot of heat for their performance against arch-rivals India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 with calls of benching a few players including Shadab. Pakistan had lost to India by 61 runs in group stage match on Sunday (Feb 15). Shadab's comments came on Wednesday (Feb 18) after they beat Namibia in comprehensive manner to book their Super 8 berth as the second team from Group A along with India.<h2>Shadab reminds ex-Pak cricketers of 2021 win over India</h2>“Our ex-cricketers have their own opinions. They have done well for Pakistan, and at the end of the day, they have also never defeated India in the World Cup. We were the ones who defeated India in the 2021 World Cup,” Shadab told reporters on Wednesday after 102-run win over Namibia."In World Cups, we have beaten India only once. Yes, they are legends, but they have never done anything remarkable against India in the World Cup,” he added.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/legal-proceedings-against-shakib-mortaza-to-be-fast-tracked-under-new-bangladesh-government-1771403014671">Legal proceedings against Shakib, Mortaza to be fast-tracked under new govt</a>Notably, India and Pakistan have played 17 matches in 50-over and T20 World Cups combined. India have won 16 matches including the bowl out in 2007 T20 World CUp group stage match which had ended in a tie. The only win for Pakistan came in 2021 T20 World Cup when Babar Azam-led team beat India by 10 wicket in Dubai, UAE.<h2>Pakistan's fixtures in Super 8</h2>Pakistan are in Group Y of Super 8 teams along with New Zealand, England and Sri Lanka. The Salman Agha-led team starts Super 8 campaign against New Zealand on Saturday (Feb 21), face England on Tuesday (Feb 24) in second Super 8 before finishing p against Sri Lanka on Saturday (Feb 28). All of Pakistan's match will be played in Sri Lanka with Colombo hosting the match vs NZ and Pallekele hosting the rest of the two games.

Notably, India and Pakistan have played 17 matches in 50-over and T20 World Cups combined. India have won 16 matches including the bowl out in 2007 T20 World CUp group stage match which had ended in a tie. The only win for Pakistan vs India came in 2021 T20 World Cup.

Pakistan spinner Shadab Khan has hit out at ex-cricketers inlcuding Shadi Afridi and Mohammad Yusuf for criticism of the national team. Pakistan team faced a lot of heat for their performance against arch-rivals India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 with calls of benching a few players including Shadab. Pakistan had lost to India by 61 runs in group stage match on Sunday (Feb 15). Shadab's comments came on Wednesday (Feb 18) after they beat Namibia in comprehensive manner to book their Super 8 berth as the second team from Group A along with India. Shadab reminds ex-Pak cricketers of 2021 win over India “Our ex-cricketers have their own opinions. They have done well for Pakistan, and at the end of the day, they have also never defeated India in the World Cup. We were the ones who defeated India in the 2021 World Cup,” Shadab told reporters on Wednesday after 102-run win over Namibia. "In World Cups, we have beaten India only once. Yes, they are legends, but they have never done anything remarkable against India in the World Cup,” he added. Also Read - Legal proceedings against Shakib, Mortaza to be fast-tracked under new govt Notably, India and Pakistan have played 17 matches in 50-over and T20 World Cups combined. India have won 16 matches including the bowl out in 2007 T20 World CUp group stage match which had ended in a tie. The only win for Pakistan came in 2021 T20 World Cup when Babar Azam-led team beat India by 10 wicket in Dubai, UAE. Pakistan's fixtures in Super 8 Pakistan are in Group Y of Super 8 teams along with New Zealand, England and Sri Lanka. The Salman Agha-led team starts Super 8 campaign against New Zealand on Saturday (Feb 21), face England on Tuesday (Feb 24) in second Super 8 before finishing p against Sri Lanka on Saturday (Feb 28). All of Pakistan's match will be played in Sri Lanka with Colombo hosting the match vs NZ and Pallekele hosting the rest of the two games.

Notably, India and Pakistan have played 17 matches in 50-over and T20 World Cups combined. India have won 16 matches including the bowl out in 2007 T20 World Cup group stage match which had ended in a tie. The only win for Pakistan vs India came in 2021 T20 World Cup.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Never done anything remarkable:' Pak's Shadab Khan reminds ex-players of own poor record vs India amid criticism

India, with six points in three matches, are already through Super 8 and have been seeded in Group X prior to the tournament. They face South Africa (Feb 22), Zimbabwe (Feb 26), and West Indies (Mar 1) in Super 8 at Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Kolkata, respectively.

T20 World Cup 2026 | Another IND vs PAK possible? Which teams India face in Super 8 matches and when

Top officials in Pakistan are unhappy with the national team’s performance against India in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. The Group A match took place at R Premadasa Stadium, where Pakistan lost by 61 runs. According to some reports, Field Marshal Asim Munir was angry and disappointed with the result. India, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, won easily and moved into the Super 8 stage. Before the match, many fans believed Pakistan had a good chance to win, however, the match showed a clear difference in quality between the two sides.&nbsp;A report by News18 said that Pakistan’s military leaders saw the loss as more serious than just a sports defeat, they felt the team was not fully ready for such an important game. Munir reportedly shared his concerns with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through official communication and said to have criticised the way the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) handled team planning and public statements.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fide-freestyle-world-championship-india-s-arjun-erigasi-finishes-6th-as-carlsen-wins-almost-lost-maiden-title-1771230755479">Carlsen wins 'almost lost' maiden FIDE Freestyle World Championship</a>&nbsp;Because of this, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is facing pressure and some people in the government believe he might be replaced to reduce tensions.&nbsp;Earlier, Pakistan had announced it would not play the match against India. However, the decision was changed about eight days later after the International Cricket Council confirmed that Bangladesh would not be punished for missing the tournament and not travelling to India.&nbsp;During the disagreement between the ICC and the PCB, Naqvi gave a strong reply when asked about possible action against Pakistan. He mentioned Munir in his statement, saying that neither he nor the government were afraid of any pressure. According to the News18 report, this public mention of the army chief was made without approval and upset officials in Rawalpindi. Munir was reportedly not happy about being connected to a cricket issue.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-on-son-in-law-shaheen-babar-azam-flop-show-vs-india-in-t20-world-cup-if-it-was-in-my-hands-i-would-not-1771232860558">Shahid Afridi on son-in-law Shaheen’s flop show vs IND: ‘If it was in my hands, I would not…’</a>&nbsp;Naqvi attended the India-Pakistan match but left before it ended after Pakistan’s poor batting display. Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar also criticised Naqvi on Indian television, calling him unqualified and inexperienced for the role.

Earlier, Pakistan had announced it would not play the match against India. However, the decision was changed about eight days later after the International Cricket Council confirmed that Bangladesh would not be punished for missing the tournament and not travelling to India.

Top officials in Pakistan are unhappy with the national team’s performance against India in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. The Group A match took place at R Premadasa Stadium, where Pakistan lost by 61 runs. According to some reports, Field Marshal Asim Munir was angry and disappointed with the result. India, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, won easily and moved into the Super 8 stage. Before the match, many fans believed Pakistan had a good chance to win, however, the match showed a clear difference in quality between the two sides. A report by News18 said that Pakistan’s military leaders saw the loss as more serious than just a sports defeat, they felt the team was not fully ready for such an important game. Munir reportedly shared his concerns with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through official communication and said to have criticised the way the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) handled team planning and public statements. Also Read - Carlsen wins 'almost lost' maiden FIDE Freestyle World Championship Because of this, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is facing pressure and some people in the government believe he might be replaced to reduce tensions. Earlier, Pakistan had announced it would not play the match against India. However, the decision was changed about eight days later after the International Cricket Council confirmed that Bangladesh would not be punished for missing the tournament and not travelling to India. During the disagreement between the ICC and the PCB, Naqvi gave a strong reply when asked about possible action against Pakistan. He mentioned Munir in his statement, saying that neither he nor the government were afraid of any pressure. According to the News18 report, this public mention of the army chief was made without approval and upset officials in Rawalpindi. Munir was reportedly not happy about being connected to a cricket issue. Also Read - Shahid Afridi on son-in-law Shaheen’s flop show vs IND: ‘If it was in my hands, I would not…’ Naqvi attended the India-Pakistan match but left before it ended after Pakistan’s poor batting display. Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar also criticised Naqvi on Indian television, calling him unqualified and inexperienced for the role.

Earlier, Pakistan had announced it would not play the match against India. However, the decision was changed about eight days later after the International Cricket Council confirmed that Bangladesh would not be punished for missing the tournament and not travelling to India.

Pakistan’s defeat to India puts Mohsin Naqvi under pressure; Asim Munir reaches out to PM Shehbaz: Report

The win against Pakistan on Feb 15 in T20 World Cup 2026 was India's 16th back-to-back victory in ICC white-ball tournaments - the longest streak by any team in history. Before India, Australia held the record for most consecutive wins (15) between Champions Trophy 2006 and ODI WC 2007.

'No loss since 2023 ODI World Cup Final': India now have most consecutive wins in ICC white-ball tournaments

In what has become a routine result in last two decades or so, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-india-thrash-pakistan-to-confirm-super-8-spot-ishan-kishan-stars-with-bat-india-vs-pakistan-1771173049221">Pakistan lost to arch-rivals India</a> in yet another T20 World Cup match - this time on Sunday (Feb 15) at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The Group A fixture in T20 World Cup 2026 was so one-sided that Pakistan fans bashed their own team after the 61-run loss. Batting first, India scored 175/7 thanks to Ishan Kishan's 40-ball 77 and then bowled out Pakistan for a paltry 114 in 18 overs. Pak wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan was highest scorer for them with 44 off 34 and the second best Pak batter was Shaheen Afridi with 23, clearing showing by they lost.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-most-spin-overs-by-any-team-pakistan-create-history-despite-crushing-loss-vs-india-1771206816196">T20 WC 2026 | 'Most by any team:' PAK create history despite tough loss vs India</a><h2>Unforgiving Pak fans lash out a poor performance vs India</h2>While many of the fans didn't expect an outright win, they hoped for a fight from their team but alas, Pak's only happiness came in the first over when skipper Salman Agha dismissed Abhishek Sharma for a duck. Everything went downhill from thereon for Pakistan. Here's how the fans reacted:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Pakistan India ka match hai mjhe tu koi farq nahi parhta. Meanwhile me: <a href="https://t.co/dxfwpDu5LD">pic.twitter.com/dxfwpDu5LD</a>&mdash; Ma&#39;mun (@AlMamunnnn) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlMamunnnn/status/2022963217979630035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am happy that pakistani twitter is finally talking about dropping Shaheen shah afridi who has bottled pakistan many matches in the past&mdash; Yamina (@Yameiena) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yameiena/status/2023059579194732554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Itna acha match chal raha hay buhat maza araha hay <a href="https://t.co/wxqCirvv3z">pic.twitter.com/wxqCirvv3z</a>&mdash; Casper🍓 (@chocococomoo) <a href="https://twitter.com/chocococomoo/status/2023035065278832759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Also idk why anyone expected anything different they do this underdog gimmick every time 😭&mdash; rameen (@rameenwhile) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameenwhile/status/2023068695858381195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">boycott hi theek tha yaar abhi sukoon se hum stress free sunday evening enjoy ker rahay hotay, family ke sath beth ke koi khana waghera kha lete idher halaq se paani utarnay wali halat nahi rahi&mdash; nma. (@namaloomafraaad) <a href="https://twitter.com/namaloomafraaad/status/2023042676845887996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">yaar pakistan ko cricket kon khelne deta hai pehlay ye batao&mdash; ☆ (@samacoree) <a href="https://twitter.com/samacoree/status/2023061833633218951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My dad inventing new gaaliyan i haven’t even heard before 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭&mdash; Duaa 🇵🇰💗 (@duaa_elahi1) <a href="https://twitter.com/duaa_elahi1/status/2023035356736893324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Can Pakistan make it to Super 8?</h2>After losing against India, Pakistan are now in must-win territory if they are to qualify for the Super 8 stage. Pakistan have won their matches against the USA and Netherlands before losing to India. They next play against Namibia in their last group-stage fixture. Pakistan would need to win the fixture against Namibia to qualify for the Super 8 along with India, who are already through the next stage. If Pakistan lose against Namibia, they will be tied with the USA at four points each and the team with better net run rate will advance to the next round.&nbsp;

Batting first, India scored 175/7 thanks to Ishan Kishan's 40-ball 77 and then bowled out Pakistan for a paltry 114 in 18 overs. Pak wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan was highest scorer for them with 44 off 34 and the second best Pak batter was Shaheen Afridi with 23.

In what has become a routine result in last two decades or so, Pakistan lost to arch-rivals India in yet another T20 World Cup match - this time on Sunday (Feb 15) at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The Group A fixture in T20 World Cup 2026 was so one-sided that Pakistan fans bashed their own team after the 61-run loss. Batting first, India scored 175/7 thanks to Ishan Kishan's 40-ball 77 and then bowled out Pakistan for a paltry 114 in 18 overs. Pak wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan was highest scorer for them with 44 off 34 and the second best Pak batter was Shaheen Afridi with 23, clearing showing by they lost. Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | 'Most by any team:' PAK create history despite tough loss vs India Unforgiving Pak fans lash out a poor performance vs India While many of the fans didn't expect an outright win, they hoped for a fight from their team but alas, Pak's only happiness came in the first over when skipper Salman Agha dismissed Abhishek Sharma for a duck. Everything went downhill from thereon for Pakistan. Here's how the fans reacted:

Batting first, India scored 175/7 thanks to Ishan Kishan's 40-ball 77 and then bowled out Pakistan for a paltry 114 in 18 overs. Pak wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan was highest scorer for them with 44 off 34 and the second best Pak batter was Shaheen Afridi with 23.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Gimmick every time:' Unforgiving Pak fans troll own team after another loss vs India

Pakistan lost the T20 World Cup 2026 match against arch-rivals India on Sunday (Feb 15) at Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka by 61 runs but still managed to create a piece of history. Pakistan bowled 18 overs of spin in the match against India and used six spinners - both the most by a team in a T20 World Cup match. The only other time a team bowled 18 overs of spin in the T20 World Cup was also Pakistan against Australia in 2012 T20 World Cup at the same venue. While Pak managed to win the 2012 contest against Australia, they lost the Sunday's clash against India after being <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-india-thrash-pakistan-to-confirm-super-8-spot-ishan-kishan-stars-with-bat-india-vs-pakistan-1771173049221">all out for 114 in a chase of 176</a>. In total, 11 spinners were used in the match by both teams combined, the most in a T20 World Cup match.<h2>Pakistan bowl record spinners and spin-overs vs India</h2>After electing to bowl first, Pakistan skipper Salman Agha started the proceedings with his off-spin and even dismissed dangerous Abhishek Sharma. Shaheen Afridi, left-arm pacer, bowled the second over for Pakistan but went for 15 runs,. Skipper Salman returned to bowl the third over - his final of the match. Pak opener Saim Ayub and leggie Abrar Ahmed bowled the next three overs to finish the powerplay. The spinners continued to bowl next 13 overs before Afridi returned to finish the innings in 20th over - his second of the match.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-pretty-disappointed-dressing-room-pak-coach-hesson-questions-shot-selection-by-top-order-after-loss-vs-india-1771203747786">T20 WC 2026 | Pak coach questions shot selection by top order post loss vs India</a>For Pakista, skipper Salman picked 1/10 in his two overs, Ayub picked 3/25 in four overs, and Usman Tariq chipped in with 1/24 in four overs. Apart from them, leggie Abrar went for 38 runs in three overs without a wicket, Shadab Khan bowled only one over for 17 runs, and Mohammad Nawaz gave away 28 runs in four overs without a wicket.<h2>India bowl 5 spinners as well</h2>For India, vice-captain Axar Patel bowled four overs for 29 runs and picked two wickets, mystery spinners Varun Chakaravarth bowled three overs for his 2/17, Kuldeep Yadav picked 1/14 in his three overs, Tilak Varma chipped in with 1/11 in two overs and Rinku Singh one over for nine runs and no wickets.

In total, 11 spinners were used in the IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 match by both teams combined, the most in a T20 World Cup match. The only other time a team bowled 18 overs of spin in the T20 World Cup was also Pakistan against Australia in 2012 T20 World Cup at the same venue.

Pakistan lost the T20 World Cup 2026 match against arch-rivals India on Sunday (Feb 15) at Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka by 61 runs but still managed to create a piece of history. Pakistan bowled 18 overs of spin in the match against India and used six spinners - both the most by a team in a T20 World Cup match. The only other time a team bowled 18 overs of spin in the T20 World Cup was also Pakistan against Australia in 2012 T20 World Cup at the same venue. While Pak managed to win the 2012 contest against Australia, they lost the Sunday's clash against India after being all out for 114 in a chase of 176. In total, 11 spinners were used in the match by both teams combined, the most in a T20 World Cup match. Pakistan bowl record spinners and spin-overs vs India After electing to bowl first, Pakistan skipper Salman Agha started the proceedings with his off-spin and even dismissed dangerous Abhishek Sharma. Shaheen Afridi, left-arm pacer, bowled the second over for Pakistan but went for 15 runs,. Skipper Salman returned to bowl the third over - his final of the match. Pak opener Saim Ayub and leggie Abrar Ahmed bowled the next three overs to finish the powerplay. The spinners continued to bowl next 13 overs before Afridi returned to finish the innings in 20th over - his second of the match. Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | Pak coach questions shot selection by top order post loss vs India For Pakista, skipper Salman picked 1/10 in his two overs, Ayub picked 3/25 in four overs, and Usman Tariq chipped in with 1/24 in four overs. Apart from them, leggie Abrar went for 38 runs in three overs without a wicket, Shadab Khan bowled only one over for 17 runs, and Mohammad Nawaz gave away 28 runs in four overs without a wicket. India bowl 5 spinners as well For India, vice-captain Axar Patel bowled four overs for 29 runs and picked two wickets, mystery spinners Varun Chakaravarth bowled three overs for his 2/17, Kuldeep Yadav picked 1/14 in his three overs, Tilak Varma chipped in with 1/11 in two overs and Rinku Singh one over for nine runs and no wickets.

In total, 11 spinners were used in the IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 match by both teams combined, the most in a T20 World Cup match. The only other time a team bowled 18 overs of spin in the T20 World Cup was also Pakistan against Australia in 2012 T20 World Cup at the same venue.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Most by any team:' Pakistan create history despite crushing loss vs India

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson the dressing being 'disappointed' after a comprehensive loss against arch-rivals India on Sunday (Feb 15) in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing 176, Pakistan were never in the hunt after losing four wickets inside the powerplay and eventually got bowled out for 114, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-india-thrash-pakistan-to-confirm-super-8-spot-ishan-kishan-stars-with-bat-india-vs-pakistan-1771173049221">losing the match by 61 runs</a>. Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to avoid potential net run rate showdown with the USA to qualify for the Super 8 stage.<h2>Pakistan coach shares dressing room update after India loss</h2>"It's a pretty disappointed dressing room in there at the moment because they know how much it means to Pakistan," Hesson said after the loss. "And we are really disappointed we didn't play as well as we could, but we're also part of the tournament and we know in tournament play that it's not always going to go your way. So our job is to pick ourselves up and make sure that we're very good in two or three days."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-west-indies-crush-nepal-s-hopes-to-seal-super-8-spot-1771144357073">T20 World Cup 2026: West Indies crush Nepal's hopes to seal Super 8 spot</a>On picking out a reason where it went wrong for the team, Hesson acknowledged: "We lost wickets early on to shots that I'm sure on that surface they were pretty tough, tough options. On a quicker surface, (like) SSC, might be a little bit different. So it is about adapting and we've been really good the last few months about adapting to different conditions. Today we probably took a little step back."<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ishan-kishan-misses-out-on-ton-gives-india-perfect-start-1771164721274">Ishan sizzles with sensational 77 vs Pak</a></h2>After being put in to bat first, India lost Abhishek Sharma early who scored his second consecutive duck in the tournament. Ishan Kishan, however, took the charge of the Indian innings and scored a sensational 40-ball 77 with 10 fours and three sixes. He added 87 runs for the second wicket with Tilak Varma (25) and put India on course for a good total on a tough pitch. India eventually managed 175/7 in 20 overs with Suryakumar Yadav being the second highest run-scorer for India with 32.

Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to comfortably qualify for the Super 8 stage.

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson the dressing being 'disappointed' after a comprehensive loss against arch-rivals India on Sunday (Feb 15) in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing 176, Pakistan were never in the hunt after losing four wickets inside the powerplay and eventually got bowled out for 114, losing the match by 61 runs. Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to avoid potential net run rate showdown with the USA to qualify for the Super 8 stage. Pakistan coach shares dressing room update after India loss "It's a pretty disappointed dressing room in there at the moment because they know how much it means to Pakistan," Hesson said after the loss. "And we are really disappointed we didn't play as well as we could, but we're also part of the tournament and we know in tournament play that it's not always going to go your way. So our job is to pick ourselves up and make sure that we're very good in two or three days." Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026: West Indies crush Nepal's hopes to seal Super 8 spot On picking out a reason where it went wrong for the team, Hesson acknowledged: "We lost wickets early on to shots that I'm sure on that surface they were pretty tough, tough options. On a quicker surface, (like) SSC, might be a little bit different. So it is about adapting and we've been really good the last few months about adapting to different conditions. Today we probably took a little step back." Ishan sizzles with sensational 77 vs Pak After being put in to bat first, India lost Abhishek Sharma early who scored his second consecutive duck in the tournament. Ishan Kishan, however, took the charge of the Indian innings and scored a sensational 40-ball 77 with 10 fours and three sixes. He added 87 runs for the second wicket with Tilak Varma (25) and put India on course for a good total on a tough pitch. India eventually managed 175/7 in 20 overs with Suryakumar Yadav being the second highest run-scorer for India with 32.

Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to comfortably qualify for the Super 8 stage.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Pretty disappointed dressing room:' Pak coach Hesson questions shot selection by top order after loss vs India

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign was derailed by India on Sunday (Feb 15) as the Men in Blue registered their routine win over their arch-rivals. Led by Ishan Kishan’s heroics with the bat, India won by 61 runs to book their place in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, it is Pakistan who are in a spot of bother as they could miss out on the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 spot in case things go against them in the Namibia clash.<h2>Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage of T20 World Cup?</h2>After a defeat to India on Sunday in the Group A clash of the T20 World Cup, it is the Men in Blue who have qualified for the Super 8 stage. This means only one more team can join Suryakumar Yadav and Co in the Super 8 stage. As things stand, in Group A, India are already qualified and Namibia are eliminated after their defeat to the USA earlier.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;This leaves three teams – Pakistan, the Netherlands and the USA scrambling for a spot in the Super 8 stage. The USA have already finished their group stage campaign with two wins and two defeats and accumulated four points. Meaning whichever team wins on the final matchday on Wednesday (Feb 18) will go through.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Pakistan face already eliminated Namibia while India face the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What is the equation on Wednesday?</h2>If Pakistan win against Namibia and the Netherlands lose to India, the former will make the Super 8 stage. In this case, Pakistan and the Netherlands both lose; it will be the USA who will qualify for the Super 8 stage. However, if Pakistan lose and the Netherlands beat India, the second spot will be decided by the net run rate (NRR). At this moment, the USA have a better NRR, but the margin of win will affect the NRR for the Netherlands.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of Pakistan to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. 

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign was derailed by India on Sunday (Feb 15) as the Men in Blue registered their routine win over their arch-rivals. Led by Ishan Kishan’s heroics with the bat, India won by 61 runs to book their place in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, it is Pakistan who are in a spot of bother as they could miss out on the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 spot in case things go against them in the Namibia clash. Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage of T20 World Cup? After a defeat to India on Sunday in the Group A clash of the T20 World Cup, it is the Men in Blue who have qualified for the Super 8 stage. This means only one more team can join Suryakumar Yadav and Co in the Super 8 stage. As things stand, in Group A, India are already qualified and Namibia are eliminated after their defeat to the USA earlier. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli This leaves three teams – Pakistan, the Netherlands and the USA scrambling for a spot in the Super 8 stage. The USA have already finished their group stage campaign with two wins and two defeats and accumulated four points. Meaning whichever team wins on the final matchday on Wednesday (Feb 18) will go through. On Wednesday, Pakistan face already eliminated Namibia while India face the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What is the equation on Wednesday? If Pakistan win against Namibia and the Netherlands lose to India, the former will make the Super 8 stage. In this case, Pakistan and the Netherlands both lose; it will be the USA who will qualify for the Super 8 stage. However, if Pakistan lose and the Netherlands beat India, the second spot will be decided by the net run rate (NRR). At this moment, the USA have a better NRR, but the margin of win will affect the NRR for the Netherlands.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of Pakistan to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage? Here's what we know so far

India extended its dominance in the T20 World Cup against arch-rivals Pakistan as they beat them by 61 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday (Feb 15). A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. The win also saw India officially confirm their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup.<h2>India thrash Pakistan in Colombo</h2>In a one-sided contest, India's bowlers defended 175 runs as Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. Only four Pakistan batters scored in double figures as India were at the top of their game with both bat and ball. Usman Khan (44) was the top scorer for Pakistan, while Shadab Khan (14), Shaheen Afridi (23) and Faheem Ashraf (10) were the only other batters in double figures.&nbsp;Indian bowlers came in handy as Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy ended with two wickets each.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What happened in Indian innings?</h2>Batting first, India were off to a poor start as they lost Abhishek Sharma in the first over for a duck. However, Ishan Kishan (77 off 40) steadied the ship as he, along with Tilak Varma (25), stitched 87 runs for the second wicket. Ishan was the aggressor of the duo as he scored 77 runs, which included 10 fours and 3 sixes. He laid the foundation for India’s brilliant start before the start as the Men in Blue recovered well.&nbsp;After Ishan’s dismissal, captain Suryakumar Yadav (32) was the moderator of the innings before India lost back-to-back wickets of Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya (0). In the end, Pakistan made a swift recovery as India were restricted to 175/7 in 20 overs.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Interestingly, Pakistan used spinners for 18 overs, thereby setting a new record in any T20I match.&nbsp;India next take on the Netherlands on Wednesday (Feb 18) at the Narendra Modi Stadium to conclude their group stage campaign. Pakistan, on the other hand face Namibia on the same day.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. 

India extended its dominance in the T20 World Cup against arch-rivals Pakistan as they beat them by 61 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday (Feb 15). A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. The win also saw India officially confirm their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup. India thrash Pakistan in Colombo In a one-sided contest, India's bowlers defended 175 runs as Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. Only four Pakistan batters scored in double figures as India were at the top of their game with both bat and ball. Usman Khan (44) was the top scorer for Pakistan, while Shadab Khan (14), Shaheen Afridi (23) and Faheem Ashraf (10) were the only other batters in double figures. Indian bowlers came in handy as Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy ended with two wickets each. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happened in Indian innings? Batting first, India were off to a poor start as they lost Abhishek Sharma in the first over for a duck. However, Ishan Kishan (77 off 40) steadied the ship as he, along with Tilak Varma (25), stitched 87 runs for the second wicket. Ishan was the aggressor of the duo as he scored 77 runs, which included 10 fours and 3 sixes. He laid the foundation for India’s brilliant start before the start as the Men in Blue recovered well. After Ishan’s dismissal, captain Suryakumar Yadav (32) was the moderator of the innings before India lost back-to-back wickets of Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya (0). In the end, Pakistan made a swift recovery as India were restricted to 175/7 in 20 overs. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Interestingly, Pakistan used spinners for 18 overs, thereby setting a new record in any T20I match. India next take on the Netherlands on Wednesday (Feb 18) at the Narendra Modi Stadium to conclude their group stage campaign. Pakistan, on the other hand face Namibia on the same day.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: India thrash Pakistan to confirm Super 8 spot, Ishan Kishan stars with bat

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan here is a list of five 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is. The list also features current India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan with Ishan joining the list after T20 World Cup 2026 clash.

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan, 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Ishan Kishan on Sunday (Feb 15) played a brilliant knock of 77 runs from just 40 balls, hitting 10 fours and three big sixes before getting out to Saim Ayub in the ninth over. The 27-year-old left-hander looked very confident from the start. He hit a six and a four off fast bowler Shaheen Afridi in the second over and it made Pakistan captain Salman Agha bring in spinners. But Kishan attacked spinners as well and smashed a four off Agha and then scored several boundaries against Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed, who struggled to stop him. &nbsp;With this innings, Kishan became the fourth Indian player to score a half-century against Pakistan in a T20 World Cup match. He joined Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa on this elite list.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20-world-cup-2026-captains-avoid-handshake-india-make-key-changes-for-high-octane-contest-suryakumar-yadav-1771161126462">India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup: Captains avoid handshake, India make key changes for high-octane contest</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first. India had a poor start as opener Abhishek Sharma, who was returning after illness, was out for a duck. He was dismissed by captain Salman Agha, who bowled the first over as a surprise move. The decision worked well for Pakistan.&nbsp;At the time of writing, India were 92 for two after 10 overs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma were at the crease. So far, Pakistan have tried six different bowlers and surprisingly Shaheen Afridi has bowled only one over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2026-match-30-check-live-streaming-details-head-to-head-pitch-weather-report-1771153953535">AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Check live streaming details, H2H and more</a>&nbsp;With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Ishan Kishan on Sunday (Feb 15) played a brilliant knock of 77 runs from just 40 balls, hitting 10 fours and three big sixes before getting out to Saim Ayub in the ninth over. The 27-year-old left-hander looked very confident from the start. He hit a six and a four off fast bowler Shaheen Afridi in the second over and it made Pakistan captain Salman Agha bring in spinners. But Kishan attacked spinners as well and smashed a four off Agha and then scored several boundaries against Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed, who struggled to stop him. With this innings, Kishan became the fourth Indian player to score a half-century against Pakistan in a T20 World Cup match. He joined Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa on this elite list. Also Read - India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup: Captains avoid handshake, India make key changes for high-octane contest Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first. India had a poor start as opener Abhishek Sharma, who was returning after illness, was out for a duck. He was dismissed by captain Salman Agha, who bowled the first over as a surprise move. The decision worked well for Pakistan. At the time of writing, India were 92 for two after 10 overs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma were at the crease. So far, Pakistan have tried six different bowlers and surprisingly Shaheen Afridi has bowled only one over. Also Read - AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Check live streaming details, H2H and more With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan misses out on ton, gives India perfect start

Excitement is running high in Colombo as India and Pakistan prepare for one of cricket’s most anticipated clashes. Fans have flooded the stadium ahead of the high-voltage encounter, while overcast conditions and cloud cover have raised concerns over possible weather interruptions.

Ind Vs Pak Fever Grips Colombo As Overcast Conditions Loom | WION

Captains avoided a handshake in the T20 World Cup 2026 contest on Sunday (Feb 15) as India took on Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium. Surrounded by political tensions, the fixture had attracted the attention of the entire cricket fraternity as the two arch-rivals met in the T20 World Cup contest. At the toss, both Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan captain Salman Agha exchanged team sheets but avoided handshakes.<h2>Captains avoid handshake</h2>Surrounded by the air of boycott, the India vs Pakistan match had everyone’s attention with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi traveling to Sri Lanka alongside International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah. However, despite the political attention, both captains avoided handshake at the toss, raising eyebrows.<h2>Abhishek, Kuldeep in, Arshdeep, Samson out</h2>Abhishek Sharma returned to the top of the batting order, replacing Sanju Samson. Mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav replaces Arshdeep Singh in the team. With Kuldeep’s return, India now have more spin options, aiming to make the most of the turning pitch in Colombo.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;The 25-year old had missed India’s previous match against Namibia in Delhi due to illness. However, he trained with the team on Saturday and looked in good touch. The left-hander appeared fully fit in the nets, playing confidently. He batted against spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy and hit them powerfully around the ground at the R. Premadasa Stadium before shifting to face the pacers.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>India Playing XI vs Pakistan</h2>India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah.<h2>Pakistan Playing XI vs India</h2>Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmad and Usman Tariq.

Surrounded by political tensions, the fixture had attracted the attention of the entire cricket fraternity as the two arch-rivals met in the T20 World Cup contest. At the toss, both Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan captain Salman Agha exchanged team sheets but avoided handshakes.

Captains avoided a handshake in the T20 World Cup 2026 contest on Sunday (Feb 15) as India took on Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium. Surrounded by political tensions, the fixture had attracted the attention of the entire cricket fraternity as the two arch-rivals met in the T20 World Cup contest. At the toss, both Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan captain Salman Agha exchanged team sheets but avoided handshakes. Captains avoid handshake Surrounded by the air of boycott, the India vs Pakistan match had everyone’s attention with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi traveling to Sri Lanka alongside International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah. However, despite the political attention, both captains avoided handshake at the toss, raising eyebrows. Abhishek, Kuldeep in, Arshdeep, Samson out Abhishek Sharma returned to the top of the batting order, replacing Sanju Samson. Mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav replaces Arshdeep Singh in the team. With Kuldeep’s return, India now have more spin options, aiming to make the most of the turning pitch in Colombo. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds The 25-year old had missed India’s previous match against Namibia in Delhi due to illness. However, he trained with the team on Saturday and looked in good touch. The left-hander appeared fully fit in the nets, playing confidently. He batted against spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy and hit them powerfully around the ground at the R. Premadasa Stadium before shifting to face the pacers. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli India Playing XI vs Pakistan India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah. Pakistan Playing XI vs India Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmad and Usman Tariq.

Surrounded by political tensions, the fixture had attracted the attention of the entire cricket fraternity as the two arch-rivals met in the T20 World Cup contest. At the toss, both Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan captain Salman Agha exchanged team sheets but avoided handshakes.

India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup 2026: Captains avoid handshake, India make key changes for high-octane contest

India made two key changes to their Playing XI for the Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2026, as Abhishek Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav returning to the side. Playing at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the changes were confirmed by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where Pakistan won the flip of the coin and opted to bowl first. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh and Sanju Samson missed out. Meanwhile, the Men in Green have opted to go with an unchanged XI from their previous outing.<h2>Abhishek, Kuldeep in, Arshdeep, Samson out</h2>Abhishek Sharma returned to the top of the batting order, replacing Sanju Samson. Mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav replaces Arshdeep Singh in the team. With Kuldeep’s return, India now have more spin options, aiming to make the most of the turning pitch in Colombo.&nbsp;The 25-year old had missed India’s previous match against Namibia in Delhi due to illness. However, he trained with the team on Saturday and looked in good touch. The left-hander appeared fully fit in the nets, playing confidently. He batted against spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy and hit them powerfully around the ground at the R. Premadasa Stadium before shifting to face the pacers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2026-match-30-check-live-streaming-details-head-to-head-pitch-weather-report-1771153953535">AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 30: Check live streaming details, head-to-head, pitch &amp; weather report</a><h2>India Playing XI vs Pakistan</h2>India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah<h2>Pakistan Playing XI vs India</h2>Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmad and Usman Tariq

Playing at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the changes were confirmed by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where Pakistan won the flip of the coin and opted to bowl first. 

India made two key changes to their Playing XI for the Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2026, as Abhishek Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav returning to the side. Playing at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the changes were confirmed by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where Pakistan won the flip of the coin and opted to bowl first. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh and Sanju Samson missed out. Meanwhile, the Men in Green have opted to go with an unchanged XI from their previous outing. Abhishek, Kuldeep in, Arshdeep, Samson out Abhishek Sharma returned to the top of the batting order, replacing Sanju Samson. Mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav replaces Arshdeep Singh in the team. With Kuldeep’s return, India now have more spin options, aiming to make the most of the turning pitch in Colombo. The 25-year old had missed India’s previous match against Namibia in Delhi due to illness. However, he trained with the team on Saturday and looked in good touch. The left-hander appeared fully fit in the nets, playing confidently. He batted against spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy and hit them powerfully around the ground at the R. Premadasa Stadium before shifting to face the pacers. Also Read - AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 30: Check live streaming details, head-to-head, pitch & weather report India Playing XI vs Pakistan India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah Pakistan Playing XI vs India Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmad and Usman Tariq

Playing at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the changes were confirmed by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where Pakistan won the flip of the coin and opted to bowl first.&nbsp;

IND vs PAK, T20 World Cup 2026: Abhishek Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav return to Playing XI; Arshdeep, Samson miss out

Cloudy and overcast conditions are prevailing ahead of the Ind vs Pak match in Sri Lanka, with the Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology forecasting brief shower intervals later in the evening. The weather outlook has raised concerns over possible interruptions during the highly anticipated clash.

Ind vs Pak Clash Under Rain Threat, Showers Forecast For Big Match | WION

The spotlight of the cricketing fraternity will be on Colombo as India and Pakistan will take the field for the ninth time in the T20 World Cup on Saturday (Feb 15). Maintaining a hot record in the fixture, India will walk into the Group A contest as the favourites, while Pakistan will look to record just their second senior men’s World Cup win over India. However, there could be an uninvited member on Sunday as rain could play spoilsport. Ahead of the high-octane clash at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, here are all the details.<h2>India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup preview</h2>After clouds of uncertainty over the fixture as early as last Tuesday, the India vs Pakistan 2026 T20 World Cup clash is all set to go ahead despite the latter’s threat to boycott. However, quick fire round of meetings in Lahore saw the International Cricket Council (ICC) make a breakthrough and get the fixture back on track. India will walk out as the favourites to win the match, having won seven out of the eight matches in the past, while Pakistan’s solitary win came in the 2021 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;India are likely to field Abhishek Sharma back into the Playing XI after he was passed fit and traveled to Colombo with the rest of the squad. While captain Suryakumar Yadav did not confirm his availability, he is likely to get back into the Playing XI, replacing Sanju Samson. Samson will be the obvious choice to be dropped from the Playing XI, having been on a poor run of form. Although Samson showed intent with his 22 off 8 balls, his performance in the build-up to the T20 World Cup is likely to see him warm the bench.&nbsp;Pakistan is likely to go with four specialist bowlers -- two spinners and two pacers. Head coach Mike Hesson and captain Salman Ali Agha were keen to go into the match with both specialist spinners, Abrar Ahmed and Usman Tariq and also two specialist fast bowlers in Shaheen Shah Afridi and Salman Mirza. The team management is also likely to make a call on dropping one all-rounder from among Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>IND vs PAK Head-To-Head In T20Is</h2>Total Matches: 16India: 13 (1 via bowl-out)Pakistan: 3Tied: 1 (India won via bowl-out)No Result: 0<h2>IND vs PAK Head-To-Head In T20 World Cup</h2>Total Matches: 8India: 7 (1 via bowl-out)Pakistan: 1Tied: 1 (India won via bowl-out)No Result: 0&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>IND vs PAK Predicted Playing XIs</h2>India Predicted XI: Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh.&nbsp;Pakistan Predicted XI: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed.&nbsp;Where to watch India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match live?Live streaming of the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match will be available on JioHotstar in India, whereas the live telecast will be available on Star Sports Network TV channels in India.&nbsp;The match is scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. IST with toss taking place 30 minutes prior if no delays are recorded after rain expected to play spoilsport.&nbsp;

After clouds of uncertainty over the fixture as early as last Tuesday, the India vs Pakistan 2026 T20 World Cup clash is all set to go ahead despite the latter’s threat to boycott. 

The spotlight of the cricketing fraternity will be on Colombo as India and Pakistan will take the field for the ninth time in the T20 World Cup on Saturday (Feb 15). Maintaining a hot record in the fixture, India will walk into the Group A contest as the favourites, while Pakistan will look to record just their second senior men’s World Cup win over India. However, there could be an uninvited member on Sunday as rain could play spoilsport. Ahead of the high-octane clash at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, here are all the details. India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup preview After clouds of uncertainty over the fixture as early as last Tuesday, the India vs Pakistan 2026 T20 World Cup clash is all set to go ahead despite the latter’s threat to boycott. However, quick fire round of meetings in Lahore saw the International Cricket Council (ICC) make a breakthrough and get the fixture back on track. India will walk out as the favourites to win the match, having won seven out of the eight matches in the past, while Pakistan’s solitary win came in the 2021 T20 World Cup. India are likely to field Abhishek Sharma back into the Playing XI after he was passed fit and traveled to Colombo with the rest of the squad. While captain Suryakumar Yadav did not confirm his availability, he is likely to get back into the Playing XI, replacing Sanju Samson. Samson will be the obvious choice to be dropped from the Playing XI, having been on a poor run of form. Although Samson showed intent with his 22 off 8 balls, his performance in the build-up to the T20 World Cup is likely to see him warm the bench. Pakistan is likely to go with four specialist bowlers -- two spinners and two pacers. Head coach Mike Hesson and captain Salman Ali Agha were keen to go into the match with both specialist spinners, Abrar Ahmed and Usman Tariq and also two specialist fast bowlers in Shaheen Shah Afridi and Salman Mirza. The team management is also likely to make a call on dropping one all-rounder from among Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli IND vs PAK Head-To-Head In T20Is Total Matches: 16 India: 13 (1 via bowl-out) Pakistan: 3 Tied: 1 (India won via bowl-out) No Result: 0 IND vs PAK Head-To-Head In T20 World Cup Total Matches: 8 India: 7 (1 via bowl-out) Pakistan: 1 Tied: 1 (India won via bowl-out) No Result: 0 ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds IND vs PAK Predicted Playing XIs India Predicted XI: Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh. Pakistan Predicted XI: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed. Where to watch India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match live? Live streaming of the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match will be available on JioHotstar in India, whereas the live telecast will be available on Star Sports Network TV channels in India. The match is scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. IST with toss taking place 30 minutes prior if no delays are recorded after rain expected to play spoilsport.

After clouds of uncertainty over the India vs Pakistan fixture as early as last Tuesday, the India vs Pakistan 2026 T20 World Cup clash is all set to go ahead despite the latter’s threat to boycott.&nbsp;

India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup 2026 Preview: Arch-rivals resume rivalry in Colombo under rain threat

India and Pakistan are all set to lock horns at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo as the arch-rivals meet in the T20 World Cup 2026. After the threat of boycott was vaporised, it is the dark clouds that could put the tie in jeopardy as the weather gods remain unkind for play in Colombo. However, that won’t stop the Indian team as they look to extend their dominance in the format against Pakistan. Ahead of the key clash, here is our predicted Playing XI.<h2>India Predicted XI</h2>India are likely to field Abhishek Sharma back into the Playing XI after he was passed fit and traveled to Colombo with the rest of the squad. While captain Suryakumar Yadav did not confirm his availability, he is likely to get back into the Playing XI, replacing Sanju Samson. Samson will be the obvious choice to be dropped from the Playing XI, having been on a poor run of form. Although Samson showed intent with his 22 off 8 balls, his performance in the build-up to the T20 World Cup is likely to see him warm the bench.&nbsp;On the other hand, India are unlikely to make changes to the bowling line-up with Jasprit Bumrah keeping his place while Mohammed Siraj could miss out again. Siraj played in India’s opener in Mumbai, but made way for Bumrah. Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy and Arshdeep Singh are likely to keep their places as India look to go strength-to-strength.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>IND vs PAK Predicted Playing XIs</h2>India Predicted XI: Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>IND vs PAK Squads</h2>India Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh.&nbsp;Pakistan Squad: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Mirza, Fakhar Zaman, Naseem Shah, Khawaja Nafay.&nbsp;

India are likely to field Abhishek Sharma back in Playing XI against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash after he was passed fit and traveled to Colombo with the rest of the squad. 

India and Pakistan are all set to lock horns at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo as the arch-rivals meet in the T20 World Cup 2026. After the threat of boycott was vaporised, it is the dark clouds that could put the tie in jeopardy as the weather gods remain unkind for play in Colombo. However, that won’t stop the Indian team as they look to extend their dominance in the format against Pakistan. Ahead of the key clash, here is our predicted Playing XI. India Predicted XI India are likely to field Abhishek Sharma back into the Playing XI after he was passed fit and traveled to Colombo with the rest of the squad. While captain Suryakumar Yadav did not confirm his availability, he is likely to get back into the Playing XI, replacing Sanju Samson. Samson will be the obvious choice to be dropped from the Playing XI, having been on a poor run of form. Although Samson showed intent with his 22 off 8 balls, his performance in the build-up to the T20 World Cup is likely to see him warm the bench. On the other hand, India are unlikely to make changes to the bowling line-up with Jasprit Bumrah keeping his place while Mohammed Siraj could miss out again. Siraj played in India’s opener in Mumbai, but made way for Bumrah. Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy and Arshdeep Singh are likely to keep their places as India look to go strength-to-strength. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli IND vs PAK Predicted Playing XIs India Predicted XI: Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds IND vs PAK Squads India Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh. Pakistan Squad: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Mirza, Fakhar Zaman, Naseem Shah, Khawaja Nafay.

India are likely to field Abhishek Sharma back in Playing XI against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash after he was passed fit and traveled to Colombo with the rest of the squad.&nbsp;

India's Predicted Playing XI vs Pakistan: Will Abhishek Sharma return for key T20 World Cup clash?

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