India vs Pakistan is on the horizon as the juggernaut of the T20 World Cup now shifts to Colombo's R Premadasa Stadium on Sunday (February 15).
This blockbuster encounter nearly didn't take place. In the lead-up to the tournament, Pakistan announced a potential boycott of the match in solidarity with Bangladesh, who had withdrawn from the event amid diplomatic tensions.
The possibility of missing this iconic fixture sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity, given its massive global viewership and commercial importance. However, after intense multilateral discussions involving the ICC, cricket boards, and diplomatic interventions, the decision was reversed just days before the match. Pakistan's national team was cleared to participate,
ensuring fans worldwide could witness yet another chapter in this historic rivalry.
Both teams arrive in excellent form. India, the defending champions and the number-one ranked T20 side, began their campaign with a convincing 29-run win over the United States. Then they secured a convincing 93-run win over Namibia. Pakistan responded emphatically in their opener, delivering a dominant performance to crush the USA and set a confident tone for the tournament. Their explosive top order and potent pace attack make them a dangerous opponent capable of turning any game on its head.
The stakes are enormous - not just for group standings, but for national pride. India aims to become the first team to successfully defend the T20 World Cup title on co-hosted home soil, while Pakistan looks to pull off a statement upset against the favourites.
All-Time Top Run Scorers in India vs Pakistan T20Is
The India-Pakistan T20I rivalry has produced some unforgettable batting displays over the years. Here are the leading run-scorers in these fixtures-
Virat Kohli (IND) - 492 runs in 11 matches (average 70.28, strike rate 123.92)
Kohli stands head and shoulders above the rest, with an extraordinary record in this fixture. His ability to anchor and accelerate under intense pressure has been central to India's success.
Mohammad Rizwan (PAK) - 228 runs in 5 matches (average 57.00, strike rate 111.76)
Rizwan has been Pakistan's most consistent performer in recent encounters, often playing match-defining knocks at the top.
Shoaib Malik (PAK) - 164 runs in 9 matches
A veteran all-rounder whose calm presence and finishing ability made him a key figure in earlier editions of the rivalry.
Mohammad Hafeez (PAK) - 156 runs in 8 matches
Known for his aggressive strokeplay and part-time spin, Hafeez delivered several impactful innings against India.
Sahibzada Farhan (PAK) - 155 runs in 3 matches
A rising star who made an immediate impact in the most recent meetings. Sahibzada is also in tremendous form and will be aiming to continue his rich vein of form.
Yuvraj Singh (IND) - 155 runs in 8 matches
The left-hander's flair and big-hitting were on full display in several memorable chases and run chases.
India vs Pakistan: Top 10 Run Scorers List
| Player | Span | Mat | Inns | NO | Runs | HS | Ave | BF | SR | 100 | 50 | 0 | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| V Kohli (IND) | 2012-2024 | 11 | 11 | 4 | 492 | 82* | 70.28 | 397 | 123.92 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 49 | 11 |
| Mohammad Rizwan (PAK) | 2021-2024 | 5 | 5 | 1 | 228 | 79* | 57.00 | 204 | 111.76 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 18 | 7 |
| Shoaib Malik (PAK) | 2007-2021 | 9 | 8 | 2 | 164 | 57* | 27.33 | 158 | 103.79 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 14 | 5 |
| Mohammad Hafeez (PAK) | 2007-2021 | 8 | 7 | 1 | 156 | 61 | 26.00 | 132 | 118.18 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 15 | 5 |
| Sahibzada Farhan (PAK) | 2025-2025 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 155 | 58 | 51.66 | 127 | 122.04 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 11 | 9 |
| Yuvraj Singh (IND) | 2007-2016 | 8 | 8 | 2 | 155 | 72 | 25.83 | 141 | 109.92 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 10 | 9 |
| G Gambhir (IND) | 2007-2012 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 139 | 75 | 27.80 | 111 | 125.22 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 14 | 3 |
| NT Tilak Varma (IND) | 2025-2025 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 130 | 69* | 130.00 | 103 | 126.21 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 7 |
| RG Sharma (IND) | 2007-2024 | 12 | 11 | 2 | 127 | 30* | 14.11 | 108 | 117.59 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 10 | 7 |
| Fakhar Zaman (PAK) | 2021-2025 | 7 | 6 | 0 | 116 | 46 | 19.33 | 91 | 127.47 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 3 |
