By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The defending champions India thrashed Pakistan by 61 runs in a blockbuster T20 World Cup match in Colombo on Sunday to book their spot in the Super Eights.
The match went ahead after Pakistan earlier reversed their decision to boycott the game in solidarity with Bangladesh, whose team refused to tour India over safety concerns and were replaced by Scotland.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and his India counterpart Suryakumar Yadav did not shake hands at the toss, though.
India were reinforced by the return of Abhishek Sharma, who missed the first two matches with a stomach infection. But the opener could not make it count.
The encounter was effectively won by a brutal early assault by India opener Ishan Kishan, who struck 77 from 40 balls on a tricky, turning pitch.
It gave co-hosts a flying start and meant, even with Pakistan’s plethora of spinners slowing the scoring and taking wickets, they still posted 175-7.
That always felt a challenging total and Hardik Pandya took a wicket in the first over of the chase and Jasprit Bumrah two in the second to all but confirm the result.
Usman Khan struck some blows in making 44 but Pakistan were swept aside – all out for 114 in 18 overs.
While India are now certain to progress as they attempt to retain the title won in 2024, Pakistan must beat Namibia on Wednesday to guarantee their place in the Super 8s.