Pakistan registered a unique bowling record on Sunday during their high-intensity ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against arch-rivals India at R Premadasa Stadium.
Playing on a slow, turning surface, the 2009 champions deployed six spin options in a single innings: Mohammad Nawaz, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Tariq, and captain Salman Ali Agha.
The six spinners used by Pakistan mark the most by any team in a men’s T20 World Cup innings and are the joint-most deployed by a full-member nation in T20 internationals.
Pakistan’s spin-heavy strategy resulted in 18 overs of spin against India. The spinners conceded 142 runs and claimed five wickets.
Saim Ayub led the spin attack with standout figures of 3 for 25 in his four overs. Mystery spinner Usman Tariq and captain Salman Ali Agha picked up one wicket each.
However, Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan struggled, conceding 38 runs in three overs and 17 runs in a single over, respectively.
Despite Pakistan’s attempt to capitalize on spin-friendly conditions, defending champions India posted a strong total of 175 for 5 in their 20 overs.
Opener Ishan Kishan anchored India’s innings after Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for a duck in the first over. Kishan scored a blistering 77 off 40 balls, striking 10 fours and three sixes.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav supported the effort with a steady 32 off 29 deliveries, including three fours. Tilak Varma contributed 25, while Shivam Dube added 27 to help India reach a competitive total.
