- By Vishal Pushkar
- Mon, 03 Jun 2024 01:56 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The India–Pakistan cricket rivalry is widely recognized as one of the most intense and significant in the world of sports. Matches between these two neighboring countries are renowned for their high stakes, intense competition, and the immense viewership they attract, often drawing comparisons to football's El Clásico.
In the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, held across the USA and the West Indies starting from June 1, this storied rivalry will be reignited. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash is scheduled for June 9 in New York, marking one of the most awaited fixtures in the group stage of the tournament.
Historically, India has had the upper hand in ICC tournaments when facing Pakistan, winning nine out of their 12 encounters. This dominance adds an extra layer of intrigue and pressure to the forthcoming match, as Pakistan will be eager to improve their record against their arch-rivals on the world stage.
1. Shaheen Shah Afridi's 3/21 against India
The tall fast bowler from Pakistan, wreaked havoc upon India's top order during the 2021 T20 World Cup clash between the two sides. His wickets were the mighty trio of KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Shaheen's exploits with the ball helped Pakistan restrict India to a modest 151 for 7 at end of 20 overs.
Chasing a below-par 152, Pakistan never looked in trouble as Mohammad Rizwan and skipper Babar Azam stitched together a match-winning partnership which took them home comfortably.
2. Hardik Pandya's 3/8 against Pakistan
The all-rounder announced his arrival in international cricket with a spectacular 3/8 in his four-over spell. On a damp wicket assisting pacers, Pandya bowled at great speed and pitched at an immaculate to get dividends helping India bowl out Pakistan on a paltry 83.
In response, Virat Kohli's masterclass powered India to 5-wicket win.
3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4/26 against Pakistan
After facing first ever defeat against Pakistan in a World Cup event in 2021, Rohit Sharma-led Team India were looking to avenge it as they faced their arch-rivals in the Asia Cup 2022 at the same venue. After asking PAK to bat first, Bhuvneshwar Kumar put up a masterclass in swing bowling getting Pakistan bowled out for 147 in 19.5 overs.
In response, India registered a comprehensive victory by 5 wickets.