India’s dominant win over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2026 didn’t just end with a big scoreline, it also led to a discussion among former cricketers including former England cricketers Moeen Ali and Ravi Bopara.
India cruised through the high-pressure clash, the biggest match of the tournament in financial and global interest terms. The build-up had already been dramatic, with Pakistan’s boycott threats reportedly putting the ICC under pressure. But once the game began, it was a one-sided affair.
Batting first on a tricky surface, India posted 175/7. In response, Pakistan’s batting collapsed and they were bowled out for just 114 in 18 overs, handing India a comfortable 61-run victory.
India used as many as seven bowlers in the match. Part-timers Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh even combined to bowl three overs. Tilak Varma was brought into the attack when Pakistan were already struggling at 78/6 in the 12th over. He struck immediately, dismissing Shadab Khan on his first delivery, which underlined how badly Pakistan’s innings had fallen apart.
Rinku Singh’s moment came later. He was handed the 17th over despite never bowling more than two overs in international cricket before. He gave away nine runs against the tailenders but by then, the result was already beyond doubt.
While speaking on a podcast, both Moeen Ali and Ravi Bopara felt the decision to use Rinku Singh in that situation carried a hint of disrespect. They suggested India were so far ahead that they didn’t even need to rely on their main bowlers and the move reflected how comfortable they were in the match.
Ravi Bopara agreed, saying India were completely in control and could afford to experiment. He added that the gap between the two sides was clearly visible and it was a tough day for Pakistan.
However, India’s approach under captain Suryakumar Yadav isn’t entirely new. In one-sided games, he has often used part-time bowlers to keep them prepared for situations where their overs might actually be needed.
Moeen Ali admitted he expected a closer contest, especially since Pakistan had quality spinners and the conditions were thought to suit them. But on the day, he felt the difference between the two teams was huge, almost impossible to compare.
Do you also feel that India insulted Pakistan by making Rinku Singh bowl an over? Do share your opinion in this regard.
