Pakistan's seventh loss to India in ICC T20 World Cup history brought joy to Indian fans but was heartbreaking for Pakistani supporters, particularly one fan who sold his tractor to attend the match. Jasprit Bumrah's three-wicket haul and Rishabh Pant's counter-attacking knock led India to a narrow victory at Nassau County Stadium, keeping India's World Cup dreams alive with two group stage games remaining.
Fan's disappointment
A heartbroken Pakistani fan, who sold his tractor for a $3,000 ticket, expressed his disappointment. Speaking to ANI, he said, "I sold my tractor to get a ticket worth $3,000. When we saw India's score, we did not think we were going to lose. The game was in our hands, but after Babar Azam got out, people were disheartened. I congratulate you all (Indian fans)."
Celebrations in India
Back in India, fans in India, celebrated the victory with massive street gatherings, fireworks, and cheers filling the air.
Match highlights
Pakistan won the toss and opted to field. Indian openers Virat Kohli (4) and Rohit Sharma (13) struggled on a tough pitch. Rishabh Pant (42 off 31 balls) played a vital innings, supported by Axar Patel (20) and Suryakumar Yadav (7). India posted 119 in 19 overs, with Haris Rauf (3/21) and Naseem Shah (3/21) as the top bowlers for Pakistan.
In the chase, Pakistan's Mohammed Rizwan (31) held one end steady, but Bumrah (3/14) and Hardik Pandya (2/24) took crucial wickets, maintaining pressure on Pakistan. With 18 runs needed in the final over, Naseem Shah's (10*) efforts fell short, and Pakistan lost by six runs. Bumrah was named 'Player of the Match' for his match-winning spell.
Also read | Hardik Pandya breaks Irfan Pathan's record to become India's most successful pacer in T20 World Cup history