T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav Reminds Pakistan of Asia Cup Setbacks Ahead of Colombo Clash

The 2026 T20 World Cup promises another high-voltage encounter as India and Pakistan are drawn in the same group. The eagerly awaited clash is set for 15 February at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed his excitement, saying that the match is one fans around the world are eagerly anticipating.

Yadav Takes a Friendly Dig at Pakistan
During the tournament announcement event, which also featured Rohit Sharma, captain of the 2024 World Cup-winning team, Yadav recalled India’s dominant performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, where India secured three consecutive wins in T20 matches. Speaking about the World Cup fixtures, he said:

“The group looks good. We are playing in great venues like Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad. Talking about the game on the 15th, we played against Pakistan recently and had a good time. Everything was fully focused on cricket, and nothing else happened. I am sure it will be a good match. The boys are always excited for India-Pakistan games, and they enjoy themselves on the field.”

Asia Cup Controversies Recalled
The India-Pakistan matches in the Asia Cup 2025 were not without controversy. Reports highlighted that the Indian team avoided handshakes with Pakistani players after matches, and even the captains did not shake hands before the games. India eventually defeated Pakistan in the final. The trophy, which Pakistan’s Home Minister and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi intended to receive, was ultimately not collected by the Indian team.

India Opens World Cup Campaign Against the USA
India will kick off its 2026 T20 World Cup campaign against the United States, with Netherlands and Namibia also in their group. The USA had previously caused a stir by defeating Pakistan in a super over during the last World Cup, and they are expected to try a similar upset this time.

With Suryakumar Yadav at the helm, India looks poised to continue its strong run against its traditional rivals while navigating the challenges posed by emerging teams in the group stage.