People poured onto the streets and set off fire crackers to celebrate Pakistan’s first win over arch-rivals India at the T20 World Cup on Sunday, with Prime Minister Imran Khan among those hailing the victory by Babar Azam’s side.
Heading into the Super 12 match in Dubai, Pakistan had never defeated their neighbours in 12 previous meetings at a global tournament but ended that drought with a thumping 10-wicket win.
Khan, a former 50-over World Cup winning captain himself, wrote on Twitter: “Congratulations to the Pakistan team and especially to Babar Azam who led from the front, as well as to the brilliant performances of [Mohammad] Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi.
“The nation is proud of you all.”
As for India, whose 151/7 was eclipsed by Pakistan’s 152/0 with 13 balls to spare, former batsman VVS Laxman says: “India have plenty of work ahead, but have the pedigree to bounce back quickly.”
Sudipto Gangluy | [email protected]