Champions Trophy 2026: India Crush Pakistan by 8 Wickets in Opener

India kicked off the Champions Trophy 2026 campaign with a commanding 8-wicket victory over Pakistan at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad before a capacity crowd of 132,000 spectators.

Pakistan, winning the toss and electing to bat, were bundled out for 186 in 43.2 overs. Jasprit Bumrah was virtually unplayable, finishing with figures of 4-28 from his 9 overs. Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with two wickets each.

India's chase was methodical and dominant. After Rohit Sharma fell early for 12, Shubman Gill (67) and Virat Kohli (89 not out) put on a match-winning partnership of 148 runs. Kohli, playing in what many speculate could be his last ICC tournament, was at his imperious best.

"The atmosphere was incredible," said captain Rohit Sharma. "The way Bumrah bowled up front set the tone for the entire match. And when Virat is in that zone, there's no stopping him."