The upcoming T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan is sure to be an electrifying one. The rivalry between these two cricket giants transcends formats and the T20Is are no different. Over the years, these matches have produced some of the most dramatic finishes and unforgettable moments in cricket history. Let’s revisit, in chronological order, five such encounters that continue to ignite the passion of fans worldwide.
1. Group stage of the T20 World Cup 2007: A tie is decided by a bowl-out – a first at World Cups
The first ever T20 World Cup meeting between India and Pakistan in 2007 brought a unique twist. Both sides scored 141 runs in their allotted overs, resulting in the first ever tie in a World Cup match. Since there were no provisions for a Super Over then, a bowl-out, a format forgotten in modern cricket, was used to determine the winner. MS Dhoni’s tactical masterstroke of using spinners in the bowl-out proved decisive. While all three Indian spinners hit the stumps, Pakistan’s experienced pacers faltered, handing India a historic win in a unique contest.
2nd final of the T20 World Cup 2007: A breathtaking finish for the ages
The first T20 World Cup final in 2007 witnessed another epic clash between India and Pakistan. Chasing the modest target of 158 set by India, Pakistan stayed in the race thanks to a fighting fifty from Misbah-ul-Haq. With just six runs needed from four balls in the final over, the pendulum swung dramatically. Misbah attempted a risky scoop shot, missed the throw and Sreesanth at fine leg grabbed the ball to secure a thrilling victory for India. This match epitomised the high drama and nail-biting finishes that have become synonymous with India-Pakistan encounters.
3rd group stage of the T20 World Cup 2021: Shaheen Afridi announces his arrival on the world stage
This game belonged to young Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Afridi. With his raw pace and swing, Afridi ripped his way through the experienced Indian top order and left the Indian batting line-up reeling. The highlight of his effort was dismissing the otherwise reliable Rohit Sharma for a golden duck. His fiery opening sprint restricted India to a manageable 159 runs. While Pakistan easily overtook the target, Afridi’s masterpiece was a defining moment in his career and heralded him as a future star on the international stage.
4. 2022 Asia Cup Super 4s: Nawaz steals the show with bat and ball
Earlier in 2022, during the Asia Cup Super 4s encounter, India set a challenging target of 181 runs. Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by the spin duo of Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan, showed exceptional control and restricted the flow of runs. Nawaz, in particular, was very economical, allowing only 25 runs in his four overs. However, his impact went beyond his bowling numbers. When Pakistan began their chase, they needed a quick knock to surpass the required run rate. Nawaz stepped up to bat and scored an aggressive 42 runs off just 20 deliveries. His overall brilliance helped Pakistan to a thrilling win by five wickets and just one ball, leaving Indian fans speechless.
5. Group stage of the T20 World Cup 2022: Kohli writes a last-ball thriller
India, chasing a modest target of 159 against Pakistan in the 2022 World Cup, were in a precarious position at 31-4. The odds were stacked against them. But then came Virat Kohli, the force of Indian cricket. In a display of exceptional composure and power, Kohli secured the comeback with a brilliant 82 from just 53 balls. The turning point came in the 19th over, when India needed 31 runs. Kohli hit two sixes off Haris Rauf and single-handedly turned the momentum. With nerves of steel, he led India to a dramatic victory with the very last ball that left Pakistani fans heartbroken.
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