India’s commanding victory over Pakistan in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has boosted confidence within the cricket establishment, with Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice-President Rajiv Shukla expressing firm belief that the team will go on to lift the trophy.

Reacting after India’s comprehensive 61-run win in Colombo on Sunday, Shukla described the result as a major achievement and praised the team’s overall performance.

“Winning against Pakistan by such a huge margin is a huge achievement. The way our boys played, I am fully confident that we will win the World Cup as well,” Shukla told reporters. He highlighted the depth in the squad, saying different players have stepped up at different times during the tournament.

Kishan’s fifty and disciplined bowling seal big win

A decisive half-century from Ishan Kishan laid the foundation for India’s total of 175 for 7. Kishan’s 77-run knock anchored the innings, while Suryakumar Yadav contributed 32 runs to push the score to a competitive total.

In reply, Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. India’s bowling attack delivered a collective performance, with Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah picking up two wickets each.

Usman Khan top-scored for Pakistan with 44, while Shaheen Afridi remained unbeaten on 23. Saim Ayub had earlier impressed with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 25 runs.

India on top of Group A

With three wins in three matches, India currently lead Group A. Pakistan stand third with two victories and one defeat, while the USA are placed second with two wins and two losses.

Shukla emphasised that the team’s strength lies in its balance and the ability of different players to deliver under pressure, reinforcing his confidence that India can go all the way in the tournament.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav on Saturday indicated that left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav and opener Abhishek Sharma are likely to feature in the much-anticipated T20 World Cup 2026 encounter against Pakistan on Sunday.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference in Colombo, Suryakumar dropped strong hints about the team combination while responding to questions about selection. In a light-hearted exchange regarding Kuldeep’s inclusion, he remarked, “Do you want him to play? Okay then he will play,” suggesting the spinner could be part of the playing XI. He also all but confirmed Abhishek Sharma’s presence in the side.

Handshake uncertainty and focus on cricket

When asked about the possibility of a handshake between the two teams at the toss, Suryakumar remained cautious. “We’ll see about handshake at toss. Wait for 24 hours,” he said, avoiding a direct answer.

Earlier, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha had stated that the match should be played in “good spirits,” adding that Pakistan’s record against India in World Cups has not been favourable. He also expressed confidence regarding spinner Usman Tariq’s bowling action and brushed aside concerns about Babar Azam’s form.

Pressure of an India-Pakistan contest

Suryakumar acknowledged the heightened expectations surrounding an India-Pakistan clash, calling it more than “just any other game.”

“There’s always pressure. With India-Pakistan, it’s more of an occasion. No matter how much we say it’s just any other game, it’s a human tendency to be under pressure because it is not any other game. We don’t play them often either. So the pressure is always there,” he said.

India’s batting concerns

Despite securing two wins in the tournament so far, India’s middle order has faced challenges against USA and Namibia. The skipper admitted the team had not been flawless with the bat.

“We had a scratchy start, we can’t run away from the fact. There’s no excuse. Everyone has played a lot of cricket, batters should have their own plans on a tricky wicket. We started well but had a hiccup, but then covered it well. It’s the beauty of T20 cricket,” he noted.

Bilateral cricket question dismissed

On being asked about the prospects of bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan, Suryakumar distanced himself from the matter.

“It’s not in our hands. When I’m at the position where I can take that call, I’ll let you know,” he responded.

Rain watch in Colombo

As India began training at the R Premadasa Stadium, the pitch remained under covers due to rain concerns. The weather remains a point of attention ahead of the high-profile contest.

With selection hints, political undertones and weather uncertainties in the backdrop, the focus now shifts to Sunday’s marquee T20 World Cup 2026 showdown.

Valentine’s Day 2026 is here, bringing with it a celebration of love, affection and meaningful connections. Observed every year on February 14, the day offers couples an opportunity to express their emotions and strengthen their bond.

The week leading up to the day, popularly known as Valentine’s Week, is marked by the exchange of roses, chocolates, teddy bears and small tokens of affection. For many, these gestures are simple yet heartfelt ways to convey feelings that often go unspoken.

While some people plan elaborate surprises, candlelight dinners or thoughtful gifts, others prefer quiet moments spent together. Whether grand or intimate, the essence of the day lies in celebrating companionship and emotional closeness.

Valentine’s Day is also seen as a time to refresh relationships, revisit shared memories and reaffirm promises of togetherness. From handwritten notes to meaningful conversations, even small gestures can leave a lasting impact.

Valentine’s Day wishes and greetings

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Valentine’s Day quotes

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Valentine’s Day remains a reminder that love, in its many forms, deserves to be expressed and celebrated — not just on February 14, but every day of the year.