Colombo: India extended its dominance over arch-rivals Pakistan with a commanding victory at the R. Premadasa Stadium, reinforcing its status as a powerhouse in international cricket.
India achieved a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan today, February 15, 2026, at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo to secure a spot in the T20 World Cup Super 8 stage.
Batting first, the Indian side posted 175/7, anchored by a high-octane 77 from Ishan Kishan. His 40-ball innings provided the necessary cushion on a surface that grew increasingly difficult for batting as the evening progressed.
The Indian bowling attack proved too clinical for the opposition, dismantling the Pakistani lineup for just 114 runs in 18 overs. The early breakthrough came from Hardik Pandya, followed by a double-strike from Jasprit Bumrah that left Pakistan reeling at 13/3. Spinners Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy then tightened the noose, with Patel claiming the vital wicket of Babar Azam
This latest win extends India’s dominant record over Pakistan in T20 World Cups to 8-1 and marks their largest-ever run-margin victory against them in the T20 format. Captain Suryakumar Yadav praised the team’s ability to stick to their “brand of cricket” under pressure, while Ishan Kishan was named Player of the Match for his game-changing knock.
The match was defined by India’s ability to capitalize on crucial moments. The top order provided a solid foundation, allowing the middle-order hitters to accelerate during the closing overs and set a challenging target. Pakistan’s pursuit of the total faltered early as the Indian pace attack exploited the conditions under lights, picking up key wickets in the powerplay.
Despite a brief period of resistance from Pakistan’s middle order, the introduction of spin saw the required run rate climb beyond reach. Indian fielders remained sharp throughout the evening, supporting a bowling unit that never allowed the pressure to dissipate. The result further improves India’s impressive win-loss ratio in Colombo, a venue that continues to be a favorable hunting ground for the team