An unexpected moment unfolded at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo after India sealed a commanding 61-run win over Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2026 Group A clash on Sunday.

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While celebrations broke out following the final wicket claimed by Hardik Pandya, a brief on-field exchange drew attention. As teammates exchanged handshakes and hugs, Hardik appeared visibly displeased with Kuldeep Yadav. India captain Suryakumar Yadav was also seen speaking animatedly to the spinner, while Tilak Varma looked concerned during the interaction. Rinku Singh stepped in, seemingly attempting to calm the situation.

The frustration appeared to stem from a dropped catch just moments before Pakistan’s innings ended.

On the second ball of Hardik’s over, Shaheen Afridi advanced down the track and pulled a short delivery towards long-on. Positioned near the boundary rope, Kuldeep settled under the ball and got both hands to it but failed to hold on. The ball slipped through his grasp and carried over the cushion for six, offering Pakistan a brief reprieve.

Though the lapse did not impact the result, such fielding errors can prove costly in tighter contests, a factor that likely triggered the visible annoyance. The incident left some fans uneasy despite India’s dominant performance.

Earlier, India had controlled proceedings after posting 175 for 7 and then bundling Pakistan out for 114.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Suryakumar emphasised that the team had executed its plans perfectly.

“I think batting first was the right decision on this wicket,” he said. “We wanted to play a certain brand of cricket and we stuck to it. The way Ishan has been batting in the last few games and in domestic cricket as well, he continued in the same manner and took the team forward.”

The win confirmed India’s place in the Super 8s, while Pakistan must now avoid defeat against Namibia in their final Group A fixture to keep their campaign alive.