India once again asserted its dominance by defeating Pakistan in a high-stakes encounter. However, the reaction that followed in Pakistan drew almost as much attention as the match itself. On one Pakistani news channel, an anchor remarked, “India might think we’re heartbroken, but we’re not — we’re used to it.” The comment quickly went viral across social media platforms.
In the high-voltage IND vs PAK clash held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Sunday, Team India secured a commanding 61-run victory. As soon as the match concluded, intense debates erupted across Pakistan. From television studios to social media timelines, sharp questions were raised about the team’s strategy, selection choices, and overall performance.
Pakistani media outlets strongly criticized the team management, particularly over the batting order and bowling tactics. Several discussions centered on why the team struggles to handle pressure in major matches. Some panelists also questioned the captaincy, arguing that key decisions at crucial moments did not work in Pakistan’s favor.
Former Pakistani cricketers were equally vocal. Many ex-players openly pointed out the lack of consistency within the squad and emphasized the need for stronger mental resilience in big tournaments. Others raised concerns about the selection process and suggested giving more opportunities to young talent.
On social media, Pakistani fans appeared divided. While some stood firmly behind the team, a significant number expressed disappointment over the players’ performances. Memes and sarcastic posts flooded platforms, reflecting widespread frustration.
While India’s victory sparked celebrations among Indian supporters, the defeat has triggered serious introspection in Pakistan. It now remains to be seen how the Pakistani team responds to the criticism and whether they can bounce back stronger in upcoming matches.
Let’s begin with Dawn News. The publication wrote that some India–Pakistan matches feel like pure theatre — tense, breathless, and decided in the final moments. But then there are nights like the one in Colombo. In the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup clash, there was no last-over thriller and no heart-stopping drama. Everything was straightforward and clinical.
India posted 175 runs, while Pakistan were bowled out for just 114. It was a clear 61-run defeat — no controversy to debate, no umpiring dispute, and no “what if” moments. The gap between the two sides was simply evident.
Meanwhile, on Geo News Urdu’s show “Harna Mana Hai,” hosted by popular Pakistani comedian Tabish Hashmi, the tone was different. During the January 15 episode, which featured players like fast bowler Mohammad Amir and Ahmed Shehzad, Hashmi joked, “India might think we’re heartbroken over this defeat. But we’re not sad — we’re used to it.”
The remark triggered loud laughter from former Pakistani cricketers and members of the audience present in the studio.
Geo News’ website also published a report under the headline: “India’s Dominance in the T20 World Cup: Pakistan Defeated by 61 Runs.” The report stated that Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha’s decision to bowl first did not benefit the team. Although Agha opened the bowling himself and provided an early breakthrough by dismissing top-ranked T20I batter Abhishek Sharma for a duck in just four deliveries, the advantage did not last.
Shama TV ran the headline: “India Crush Pakistan by 61 Runs.” The report highlighted that Pakistan became the first team in T20 World Cup history to use six spin bowlers in a single innings. These included Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, and Usman Tariq.
Similarly, The Express Tribune kept its headline simple: “India Bowl Out Pakistan to Win by 61 Runs in T20 World Cup.” The publication added that with this commanding victory, India moved to the top of their group’s points table.
Now coming to the reactions from former Pakistani cricketers — former batter Mohammad Yousuf wrote on social media platform X that “the time of Shaheen, Babar, and Shadab is now over,” adding that Pakistan needs new match-winners.
Dawn also quoted former opener Ahmed Shehzad, who described the team’s performance as extremely poor. He remarked that Pakistan cricket’s tragedy is “the same old faces, the same old results,” and urged the system to stop misleading the nation.
The defeat has clearly triggered strong reactions across Pakistan’s media and cricketing circles, turning the loss into a moment of serious reflection for the team.
