COLOMBO: Cricket’s most celebrated rivalry will once again take centre stage as Pakistan national cricket team face arch-rivals India national cricket team in a high-voltage group-stage clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the R Premadasa Stadium here on Sunday.
Both teams have secured four points from their opening two matches, with India leading the standings on a superior net run rate while Pakistan occupy the second spot.
The encounter will mark the first meeting between the two sides since last year’s Asia Cup final, played amid heightened tensions following military hostilities between the two neighbouring countries.
The build-up to the fixture also witnessed uncertainty after Pakistan briefly threatened to boycott the match in solidarity with Bangladesh over regional political developments, before the issue was resolved following consultations led by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The contest, regarded as one of the most lucrative fixtures in international cricket, has drawn a full house at the 35,000-capacity stadium, with millions more expected to watch worldwide. Authorities have announced enhanced security measures around the venue to prevent illegal ticket reselling.
Rain concerns ease
Earlier weather forecasts had predicted heavy rain in Colombo, raising fears of a disrupted match. However, Sri Lanka’s meteorological authorities have indicated that only cloud cover is expected, reducing the likelihood of significant interruptions.
Team management is considering adjustments to the playing XI depending on pitch and weather conditions. Pakistan may strengthen their pace attack if overcast conditions prevail, with fast bowlers Naseem Shah and Salman Mirza in contention for inclusion.
Spirit of the game
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, speaking at a pre-match press conference, expressed hope that the contest would be played in the traditional spirit of cricket despite recent controversies, including a handshake dispute between the teams during the Asia Cup.
“This is a very big game and the magnitude is huge. We were always ready for the match regardless of the decision,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s familiarity with Colombo conditions could be beneficial.
The winner of the match will secure qualification for the Super Eights stage of the tournament.
Players to watch
For Pakistan, opener Sahibzada Farhan has shown promising form, while much attention remains on former captain Babar Azam. All-round contributions from Saim Ayub and off-spinner Usman Tariq could also prove decisive.
India, on the other hand, will rely on captain Suryakumar Yadav, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, while spinner Varun Chakravarthy has emerged as a key bowling asset.