It's that once-in-four-years moment: India vs Pakistan in the World Cup. Often dubbed the ultimate cricketing showdown, this rivalry is unparalleled. No phrase, saying, or even the renowned 'Mauka-Mauka' can truly encapsulate the anticipation surrounding this encounter, set to unfold at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday, October 14.
Spanning over four decades since the early 1980s, the India-Pakistan cricketing duel has grown fiercer. However, the World Cup adds an extra zest to this face-off, primarily due to India's unbroken winning streak.
As the electrifying match between India and Pakistan approaches, fans are left pondering: Can Babar's team rewrite the history of their World Cup encounters? The two cricketing giants have locked horns seven times in ODI World Cup tournaments, with India emerging victorious on every occasion. Since the first time that these two met at this massive stage, India has consistently outperformed Pakistan in 50-over World Cup matches. While there have been countless unforgettable moments, the outcome has always favoured India.
As we gear up for this weekend's marquee match, let's journey back in time and revisit India's seven triumphant moments against Pakistan on cricket's grandest platform.
March 4, 1992: India secure a hard-fought 43-run victory in Sydney
While it might come as a shock to many, India and Pakistan didn't face each other in the initial four World Cup editions. Their iconic rivalry in the World Cup began with the vibrant coloured kits under the Sydney Cricket Ground's illuminating floodlights. Batting first, a youthful Sachin Tendulkar, participating in his debut World Cup, crafted a brisk 54 from 62 deliveries, propelling India to a total of 216/7 in 49 overs. Pakistan's Mushtaq Ahmed clinched three wickets, while Aaqib Javed added two to his tally.
With 217 runs to defend, the Indian bowlers showcased collective prowess, bundling out Pakistan for a mere 173 in 48.1 overs. Cricket legends Kapil Dev, Manoj Prabhakar, and Javagal Srinath each secured two dismissals. Sachin and Venkatapathy Raju also made valuable contributions with the ball. For Pakistan, Amer Sohail stood out with a well-made 62 off 95 balls. The formidable Javed Miandad chipped in with 40 runs. However, his innings are best remembered for a theatrical altercation with Kiran More, which has since become an unforgettable World Cup moment.4
During his batting stint, Miandad and More engaged in a verbal spat. The tension escalated when More appealed for a leg-side delivery from Tendulkar, which Miandad failed to connect. Clearly displeased, Miandad voiced his discontent to the umpire. Even though the decision didn't go their way, More persisted, making a run-out attempt in the same over, despite Miandad being well within the crease.
In response to More's actions, an animated Miandad humorously mimicked him. Holding his bat with both hands, he comically hopped up and down. This light-hearted moment has since become a cherished memory for cricket enthusiasts.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK
'He is just a game-changer': Eoin Morgan names one player with X-factor potential and it's not Kohli, Rohit, Babar or Afridi
'My blood pressure has risen...I will create ruckus outside stadium if...': Pakistan superfan Bashir Chacha warns officials ahead of India vs Pakistan match
