Colombo: India secured a dominant 61-run victory over Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2026 match at R. Premadasa Stadium, but off-field moments also captured attention. A warm hug and handshake between former India captain Rohit Sharma and Pakistani legend Wasim Akram went viral on social media, standing out amid continued tension between the two nations on cricket fields in recent tournaments.
Rohit Sharma and Wasim Akram’s Gesture
While Indian players have often refrained from handshakes with Pakistani players since the ACC Asia Cup 2025, Rohit Sharma, acting as a tournament ambassador, shared a friendly embrace with Wasim Akram before the match, providing a heartwarming contrast to the usual intensity of India-Pakistan encounters.
Ishan Kishan Leads India’s Batting Blitz
On the field, India dominated from the start. After Pakistan elected to bowl, India posted 175/7 in 20 overs, powered by Ishan Kishan’s explosive 77 off 40 balls, including 10 boundaries and three sixes. His aggressive innings laid the foundation for a strong total and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Also read : India Triumphs Over Pakistan in High-Voltage T20 World Cup Showdown
Pakistan Struggle in Chase
Chasing 176, Pakistan never gained momentum and were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. Only Usman Khan (44) offered notable resistance, while seven of Pakistan’s batters failed to reach double figures, reflecting a complete batting collapse.
Surya Kumar Yadav didn’t shake hands with Salman Ali Agha at the toss.
Indian players didn’t shake Hands with Pakistanis at the end of the match.
But Rohit Sharma was seen hugging Pakistani Wasim Akram.
I just hope Rohit isn’t abused and shamed for it. pic.twitter.com/qJvN1xppIi
— Roshan Rai (@RoshanKrRaii) February 16, 2026
India’s Bowling Shares the Spoils
India’s bowling attack was clinical, with Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakravarthy claiming two wickets each, and Kuldeep Yadav and Tilak Varma adding one each, ensuring Pakistan never got close to the target.
India’s emphatic performance, coupled with the viral pre-match hug between Sharma and Akram, made this T20 World Cup clash memorable both on and off the field.