By Sandipan Banerjee in Colombo
After weeks of uncertainty, late-night discussions and administrative effort, the much-awaited clash between India and Pakistan is finally here. And despite India’s one-sided dominance on the field, a clash against arch-rivals Pakistan still remains one of cricket’s most intense contests, driven as much by the drama around it as by the cricket itself, and Colombo is set for another big night on Saturday, if the weather allows.
Clouds have lingered over the city through the weekend, raising concerns about interruptions, but that has not taken away from the anticipation around the R. Premadasa Stadium. Fans from both sides have travelled in large numbers, aware that games between these two rarely pass without the twist and turns.
India arrive with momentum on their side after two wins from two games. While their batting has looked slightly scratchy at times, the bowling unit has been disciplined throughout. Captain Suryakumar Yadav appears settled in the role on the big stage, and his return to form with the bat has come as a huge relief for the team management.
India have received a boost as their most trusted T20I opener Abhishek Sharma is fit again after missing the Namibia game due to stomach issues. He is expected to return to the XI on Saturday, adding much-needed firepower at the top during the powerplay.
On Friday, Abhishek batted for around half an hour in the nets at the R. Premadasa Stadium, while Sanju Samson, who opened in Delhi in his place, skipped the session, a move believed to indicate the left-hander’s return to the Indian XI.
India may also consider bringing Kuldeep Yadav into the XI, keeping in mind his impressive record against Pakistan in recent meetings. On a surface that traditionally offers some assistance to spinners, his variation could be crucial through the middle overs, especially with the Indian think-tank placing strong emphasis on match-ups in the shorter format. If Kuldeep makes the cut, India may have to leave out Arshdeep Singh to balance the XI.
Much of the pre-match chatter, however, has centred on Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq. His bowling action, particularly the noticeable pause before release, has drawn attention and debate in last few days. The uniqueness of his action has made him a talking point among fans and analysts alike.
India appeared keen not to be caught unprepared. During Friday’s practice session, Suryakumar Yadav was seen imitating Usman Tariq’s action and bowling a few deliveries to Abhishek Sharma, a practical exercise aimed at helping the batters get used to the pause and release point in Tariq’s action.
While India have several match-winners in their line-up, the defending champions will once again look towards Hardik Pandya in key moments of this high-pressure contest. He has repeatedly delivered against Pakistan, whether by breaking crucial partnerships with the ball or finishing games with the bat.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will rely heavily on their pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi to make early inroads. His ability to swing the new ball remains one of their biggest strengths. If he strikes in the powerplay, the tone of the game could shift quickly.
Meanwhile, Pakistan may look to add an extra pacer to the XI if rain lingers and there is some dampness on the surface. In that scenario, Naseem Shah could come into contention, with one of their frontline spinners likely to make way.
Pakistan skipper Salman Agha has spoken about staying calm and focusing on execution. In a match of this scale, that mindset will be tested from the first ball. Whereas his Indian counterpart is Suryakumar is sounded more focused on continuing the good work which the team has been doing in the last few years.
From a tournament perspective, both sides are well placed. Yet India versus Pakistan is rarely about points alone. It is about handling pressure, taking chances when they come, and delivering when the spotlight is brightest.
If the rain holds off, Colombo could witness another gripping chapter in cricket’s most watched rivalry.
Likely XIs
India: Ishan Kishan (WK), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha (C), Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed
Match Starts: 7 PM Local Time
