Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat, hoping to set a challenging total. The innings began cautiously, with openers facing a disciplined Indian bowling attack led by Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya. Early breakthroughs came when Pandya dismissed the dangerous Babar Azam, and Shami struck to remove another key batter, leaving Pakistan at 81/2 after 21 overs.
Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan then steadied the ship with a gritty partnership, countering the Indian spinners on a surface that began to offer turn. Shakeel’s half-century was a highlight, showcasing his ability to anchor under pressure. However, just as Pakistan seemed poised to accelerate, India’s bowlers roared back. Pandya claimed his 200th international wicket by dismissing Shakeel, while the spinners—likely Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja—tightened the screws. Pakistan’s middle and lower order crumbled, and they were bowled out for 241 in the final over. Shami’s relentless accuracy and Pandya’s breakthroughs were pivotal, ensuring the target remained within India’s reach.
