The highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup has gotten off to a tense start. After opting to bat first under overcast conditions in New York, India suffered a major blow with the early dismissals of star batsmen Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli within the first three overs.
When Kohli goes, India loses!
This setback has sent a wave of concern through the Indian camp, particularly with Kohli’s exceptional record against Pakistan in past T20 World Cups. Prior to this match, Kohli boasted a remarkable average of over 300 against their arch-rivals in the tournament. However, his dismissal in the 2021 edition coincided with India’s only defeat to Pakistan in the T20 World Cup.
After hammering a sumptuous cover drive off the first delivery he faced, Kohli handed one straight to point. It was not a dangerous delivery by Naseem Shah, but Kohli’s technique let him down. He went for 4 runs off 3 balls.
Moreover, this will be the first time Virat Kohli won’t be India’s top-scorer in the T20 World Cup matches against Pakistan.
Top-scorer for India in T20 WC matches vs PAK (since Kohli debut)
| Edition | Player | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Virat Kohli | 78* |
| 2014 | Virat Kohli | 36 |
| 2016 | Virat Kohli | 55 |
| 2021 | Virat Kohli | 57 |
| 2022 | Virat Kohli | 82 |
| 2024 | Not Virat Kohli | ** |
The match is still in its early stages, and the outcome remains uncertain. However, India’s shaky start has undoubtedly handed Pakistan a significant advantage. All eyes are on the middle order to steady the ship and prevent a collapse.
This historical stat adds pressure to the remaining Indian batsmen. Can they overcome the early loss of their batting stalwarts and build a strong total? Only time will tell.
