India vs Pakistan: Where will the match be decided? Will rain play a role?
Times of India
by PRATYUSH RAJFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
India's highly anticipated T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan is set to take place in Colombo, but the match hangs in the balance due to unfavorable weather conditions. With a 55-60% chance of rain forecasted for Sunday afternoon and evening, the game could be at risk of being shortened or even declared a no-result. The R Premadasa Stadium's slow pitch is expected to favor spinners, setting the stage for a fascinating battle between India's Shivam Dube and Pakistan's formidable spin attack led by Abrar Ahmad, Shadab Khan, Usman Tariq, and Mohammad Nawaz.
The match also hinges on key player performances. For Pakistan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, despite an off day against the USA, remains a crucial fast bowler. He will face off against India's Abhishek Sharma, who has shown strong form in recent matches. Their head-to-head encounter during the Asia Cup, where Sharma outperformed Afridi, adds spice to this matchup. Meanwhile, Pakistan's spinners have been practicing extensively, with Usman Tariq and Saim Ayub showcasing their abilities in net sessions.
For India, Shivam Dube's ability to counter Pakistan's spin attack is pivotal. His recent performances suggest he could be a game-changer. However, the weather remains a wildcard factor. If rain disrupts play, it may favor Pakistan's pace bowlers, who could gain an upper hand in shorter spells. The outcome of this high-stakes match will not only determine progress in the T20 World Cup but also capture the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide, given the historic rivalry between these two nations.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026