The India-Pakistan match in the Champions Trophy is always a highly anticipated event, and for good reason. The two teams have a long and complex history, with plenty of memorable moments that have left a lasting impression on fans. As we look ahead to their upcoming match on Sunday, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic moments in India-Pakistan cricket history.
One of the most enduring images from the 1992 World Cup is of Javed Miandad batting for Pakistan, with Indian wicketkeeper Kiran More constantly trying to get under his skin. But Miandad wasn’t having it – he started jumping up and down like a kangaroo, much to the amusement of the crowd. Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin later criticized Miandad’s behavior, but it’s a moment that has become ingrained in the lore of India-Pakistan cricket.
Another memorable moment came in the 1996 World Cup, when Pakistan was chasing runs in a match against India in Bangalore. Aamir Sohail was batting well, and after hitting a four off Venkatesh Prasad, he proceeded to taunt the Indian bowler. But Prasad wasn’t about to let Sohail get the better of him – he bowled him out on the very next ball, and the celebration that followed was pure pandemonium. The entire Chinnaswamy Stadium erupted in joy, and it’s a moment that’s still talked about today.
In 1997, the two teams faced off in Toronto, with Pakistan fielding first. But the fans in the stand were in a provocative mood, teasing Inzamam ul Haq with chants of “Aloo-Aloe”. Inzamam ul Haq, however, didn’t take kindly to the taunts – he stormed into the stand and hit one of the fans with his bat. It was a shocking moment that left everyone stunned, and it’s a reminder of the intense passion and emotion that can sometimes boil over in India-Pakistan matches.
In 2007, Pakistan toured India, and the ODI match between the two teams was marked by a heated exchange between Gautam Gambhir and Shahid Afridi. The two players had to be separated by the umpires and other players, and it was a tense moment that threatened to boil over into something more serious.
Finally, who can forget the 2010 Asia Cup, when Harbhajan Singh was at the crease for India and got into an argument with Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar? Akhtar had said something to Harbhajan after a dot ball, and the Indian batsman took umbrage. But instead of letting it get to him, Harbhajan channelled his anger into his batting, hitting two sixes off Akhtar to lead India to victory. It was a thrilling moment that showcased the intense rivalry between the two teams, and it’s a memory that will be etched in the minds of fans for a long time to come.
