Nagpur: Jubilant scenes unfolded across the city late Sunday night after India registered a commanding victory over Pakistan in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup clash, securing a berth in the Super 8 stage. Cricket enthusiasts poured onto the streets, particularly in Dharampeth, where celebrations continued well past midnight.
Chasing a crompetitive target of 176, Pakistan crumbled under relentless pressure and were bowled out for 114, handing India a comprehensive win. With this triumph, India advanced to the Super 8s, joining West Indies, who had earlier sealed their qualification.
The city’s cricket lovers gathered in large numbers in Dharampeth, waving the tricolour and chanting “India, India” as fireworks lit up the skyline. The rhythmic beats of dhols reverberated through the area as youth and families celebrated the emphatic win. Traffic slowed in several stretches as fans assembled to mark the occasion. Anticipating the gatherings, city police deployed additional personnel to maintain law and order and regulate vehicular movement.
On the field, Pakistan’s batting line-up faltered despite Usman Khan’s fighting 44. The Indian bowling attack maintained tight control throughout the innings. Jasprit Bumrah returned figures of 2 for 17, while Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy claimed two wickets each. Hardik Pandya also struck twice, conceding just 16 runs. Kuldeep Yadav and Tilak Varma chipped in with a wicket apiece as India’s bowlers executed a disciplined performance. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav rotated as many as seven bowlers to keep the pressure intact.
Earlier, India posted a competitive 175 after being put in to bat. Ishan Kishan led the charge with a blistering 77 off 40 deliveries, setting the tone for the innings. Suryakumar Yadav contributed a steady 32, while Tilak Varma added 25 and Shivam Dube chipped in with 27 to bolster the total.
For Pakistan, Saim Ayub was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 25 in his four overs, while Salman Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Usman Tariq claimed one wicket each.
India’s unbeaten run in the tournament continues, with the team delivering a dominant performance in one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries. As the final wicket fell, cheers erupted not only inside the stadium but echoed across Nagpur, where supporters celebrated a memorable night for Indian cricket.
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