India’s emphatic seven-wicket win over Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday carried emotions far deeper than the result itself. Vice-captain Shubman Gill, in a heartfelt message, dedicated the triumph to the victims of the April Pahalgam attack and India’s armed forces, striking a powerful chord with fans across the nation.
“Today’s win is dedicated to the victims of Pahalgam and to our brave armed forces who continue to safeguard us. The spirit of India lives on both on and off the field. Jai Hind,” Gill shared on Instagram, alongside celebratory images of the team. His words reminded millions that cricket often extends beyond sport, reflecting the larger backdrop of India-Pakistan ties.
The clash was their first meeting since the deadly military conflict in May, which followed the tragic Pahalgam incident. The match, therefore, was as politically charged as it was competitive.
On the field, India’s spinners ensured total control. Kuldeep Yadav was the standout performer with figures of 3-18, supported ably by Axar Patel, who chipped in with 2-18. Pakistan struggled throughout their innings, managing only 127/9. Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah also delivered crucial early breakthroughs, while Pakistan’s resistance came mainly from Sahibzada Farhan, who scored 40, and a late cameo from Shaheen Shah Afridi, smashing 33 not out off just 16 balls.
India’s chase began explosively, with Abhishek Sharma blazing 31 runs from just 13 balls, taking on Shaheen Afridi with a mix of boundaries and fearless strokeplay. Though Gill was dismissed early, a composed partnership between captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma sealed the win with confidence. Yadav remained unbeaten on 47 from 37 balls, finishing the game in grand style with a towering six. Tilak Varma’s steady 31 added to India’s dominance, and the chase was wrapped up with 25 deliveries to spare.
However, it wasn’t just the cricket that drew headlines. Post-match, India’s players walked off without exchanging handshakes with their opponents. Asked about the decision, skipper Yadav made it clear: “The team were aligned with the government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India in not shaking hands with the Pakistan team.”
The victory, India’s second straight, virtually guarantees them a place in the Super Fours, while Pakistan now face a must-win game against hosts UAE to stay alive in the tournament.
