Overview:
Pakistan’s biggest asset in Colombo could be their bowling strength, spearheaded by the enigmatic Usman Tariq.
Former Indian batter Dinesh Karthik has warned that the T20 World Cup meeting with Pakistan in Colombo could pose a formidable challenge for India. The blockbuster contest is scheduled for Sunday at the R Premadasa Stadium, following a build-up overshadowed by developments off the pitch.
As expected, the contest carries high expectations, though Pakistan step in with visible self-belief and rhythm. Karthik told Cricbuzz that Colombo’s surface, known to assist slower bowlers, could place India’s strokemakers under significant scrutiny.
“Game against Pakistan will be one of India’s biggest challenges in recent years. Pakistan are entering this clash as competitive as they have been for a long time, especially given how comfortable they are with the local conditions. Their chances of stretching India are stronger now than in the recent past. On these Colombo surfaces, it is India’s batting unit that is likely to face the sterner examination,” Karthik said.
“India’s record against spin on surfaces that are slow and offer some grip isn’t as strong as it is on true batting tracks. The numbers clearly show a noticeable gap. That’s one aspect they will have to be cautious about,” he added.
Past records may not favour Pakistan, yet their performances in T20 World Cup 2026 suggest a side finding rhythm at the right time.
Pakistan’s biggest asset in Colombo could be their bowling strength, spearheaded by the enigmatic Usman Tariq. On surfaces expected to aid turn and variable bounce, his variations may pose questions for an Indian lineup.