India captain Suryakumar Yadav dedicated Sunday’s Twenty20 World Cup victory over Pakistan to fans across the country, while his opposite number Salman Agha urged perspective after a chastening defeat in a contest that never matched its blockbuster billing.
The much-hyped showdown between the South Asian neighbours failed to live up to expectations as India racked up 175-7 and then returned to bundle out Pakistan for 114 in 18 overs.
The match itself passed without flashpoints despite the tensions, but there was no shaking of hands between the rival captains at the toss. Both Suryakumar and Salman looked grim when the coin was flipped and averted eye contact.
The mood was completely different when the India captain spoke after the match at the R Premadasa Stadium.
“This is for India. We played the same brand of cricket that we wanted to play,” the batter said, sporting a wide grin.
Suryakumar heaped praise on opener Ishan Kishan whose rapid 77 fashioned their victory.
“The way Ishan Kishan batted is the same as he did in our previous games and on the domestic circuit. Ishan thought outside the box and took responsibility in the powerplay.”
Player of the match Kishan conceded it was not just another game for them given the tensions between the nations.
“India v Pakistan is a special game for us and our country,” Kishan said.
“It is a very important game. They had good spinners and we tried to play good shots. It gives us confidence going ahead in the tournament.”
Pakistan captain Salman felt his teammates should have done better despite the burden of expectation on their shoulders.
“In these games the emotions are going to be high but we have played enough cricket,” Salman said.
“We need to get ourselves together and look to the game in a few days’ time.
“You have to see the big picture. We need to qualify for the Super Eight now.”
Pakistan will need to beat Namibia in their final group game to qualify for the Super Eight where the arch-rivals may clash again.
(Reuters)
