Suryakumar Yadav believes that the much-talked-about India-Pakistan rivalry has lost its edge. Speaking after India’s latest win, he dismissed the idea of the clash being a rivalry anymore. “If two teams play 15-20 matches and the head-to-head is close, then it’s a rivalry. But 13-0, 10-1… this isn’t one anymore,” he said, noting India’s clear dominance. India have now beaten Pakistan in seven consecutive men’s internationals since their defeat at the 2022 Asia Cup.
Suryakumar also pointed to what he felt was the decisive phase of the game. At the halfway mark of Pakistan’s innings, they were 91 for 1, their best halfway score in T20Is against India. However, after the drinks break, India tightened the screws. Between overs 10 and 17, Pakistan managed only 38 runs, the lowest tally in that period at this tournament.
“The turning point was the drinks break in the first innings,” Suryakumar said. “The bowlers adjusted their lines and lengths, showed more energy, and the spinners did well. Shivam Dube’s spell was also a turning point.”
Dube, often underused as a bowler, delivered a full four-over spell for just the third time in his T20I career. He picked up 2 for 33, dismissing Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan, the latter falling after a well-made fifty. His breakthroughs came when Jasprit Bumrah had an off-day, conceding 45 runs without a wicket.
Praising Dube, Suryakumar noted his hard work in practice. “He always wanted to bowl more, and today he got the opportunity. His plans were clear, and he was ready to deliver,” he said.
India’s all-round effort ensured another victory over Pakistan, reinforcing Suryakumar’s view that the contest is no longer a rivalry, but a one-sided record of dominance.
