In what promises to be a captivating showdown, cricketing giants India and Pakistan are set to rekindle their historic rivalry in a highly anticipated World Cup match in Ahmedabad this Saturday.
Looking back, let’s reminisce about six unforgettable One Day International (ODI) encounters between these fierce adversaries before their impending clash:
1. Miandad’s Sharjah Stunner (April 18, 1986 — Sharjah):
An indelible moment etched in cricket history. Javed Miandad’s dramatic last-ball six led Pakistan to a one-wicket victory. His unbeaten 116 off 114 balls helped Pakistan chase down 246 runs. Miandad’s iconic six, off a full toss by Indian fast bowler Chetan Sharma, sent the ball soaring into the crowd, igniting jubilant celebrations. In recognition of his heroics, Miandad was bestowed with a golden sword.
2. Imran’s Dazzling Display (March 22, 1985 — Sharjah):
The legendary Imran Khan displayed his bowling prowess, securing a remarkable 6-14, dismantling the Indian batting lineup for a paltry 125. Alas, Pakistan’s batting unit couldn’t reciprocate the performance and was dismissed for just 87. Despite the loss, Imran’s brilliance earned him the title of Man of the Match in this low-scoring duel.
3. Jadeja’s Explosive Innings (March 9, 1996 — Bangalore):
In a high-voltage World Cup quarter-final, Ajay Jadeja’s blistering 25-ball 45 turned the tide in India’s favor, knocking out defending champions Pakistan. Jadeja’s assault on Waqar Younis, featuring four boundaries and two sixes, propelled India to a formidable 287-8. The decisive moment came when Aamir Sohail’s hubris led to his dismissal, and Pakistan succumbed, losing by 39 runs.
4. Ganguly’s Heroics (January 18, 1998 — Dhaka):
Sourav Ganguly delivered a match-winning century, overshadowing Saeed Anwar’s 140, in a deciding match for Bangladesh’s Silver Jubilee Independence Cup. Ganguly’s sublime 124, adorned with 11 fours and a six, helped India chase down 315 with one ball to spare. Yet, it was Hrishikesh Kanitkar who stole the show, securing victory with a boundary off the penultimate delivery, setting a world record for the chase at the time.
5. Tendulkar’s Magical Duel (March 1, 2003 — Centurion):
Sachin Tendulkar’s memorable 98 against Pakistan at the 2003 World Cup remains etched in cricket lore. His duel with the express pace of Shoaib Akhtar left an indelible mark. Tendulkar’s 75-ball knock guided India in their chase of 274, and his audacious uppercut for a six off Akhtar became an iconic moment in his career. India triumphed by six wickets, despite Akhtar eventually dismissing Tendulkar.
6. Zaman’s London Brilliance (June 18, 2017 — London):
In the 2017 Champions Trophy final, Pakistan entered as underdogs but stunned India with a dominant performance. Fakhar Zaman’s blazing century, an impressive 114 off 106 balls, and a 128-run opening partnership with Azhar Ali, propelled Pakistan to an imposing 338 for four. Their bowlers then dismantled India for just 158, winning by a resounding 180-run margin. Hasan Ali was the star among the bowlers, taking 3-19, while Fakhar Zaman left an indelible mark with his swashbuckling performance against the Indian attack.
As these cricketing powerhouses prepare for their latest encounter, these historic clashes remain vivid reminders of the intensity, drama, and sheer sporting excellence that define the India-Pakistan rivalry.
