The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is among the fiercest in the history of the sport, yielding some unforgettable moments across the decades. With the arch-rivals set to face off in their much-awaited Champions Trophy showdown in Dubai, here’s a glance at six of the most memorable ODIs that characterized their illustrious rivalry.
1. Javed Miandad’s Last-Ball Six (Sharjah, 1986)
Maybe the most unforgettable moment in India-Pakistan cricket history, Javed Miandad’s last-ball six against Chetan Sharma during the Austral-Asia Cup final is still alive in every viewer’s memory. Pakistan had four runs needed off the last ball, and Miandad’s six to save the game gave an instant classic victory.
2. Chennai Classic: Pakistan’s Historic Win (1997)
In a nail-biting match, Pakistan overcame India in Chennai, winning a rare Indian victory. The tearful post-match moments, with the Chennai crowd awarding Pakistan a standing ovation, made this match one to remember.
3. The 1999 World Cup Thriller at Old Trafford
In perhaps the most hyped game of the 1999 Cricket World Cup, India, captained by Venkatesh Prasad’s blistering spell, sent Pakistan packing for 180, in a classic 47-run win.
4. Ajay Jadeja’s Carnage Against Waqar Younis (1996 World Cup)
India’s quarterfinal victory against Pakistan in the 1996 World Cup was marked by Ajay Jadeja’s unbelievable rapid-fire 45 off 25 balls against Waqar Younis, turning the game in India’s favor.
5. Karachi 2004: Sehwag’s Rampage in the Chase
India chased 350 runs in Karachi successfully as Virender Sehwag and Rahul Dravid’s heroics guaranteed a thumping victory in this high-scoring match.
6. 2011 World Cup Semifinal: The Dhoni Gambit
A high-pressure match in Mohali saw India triumph over Pakistan in the 2011 World Cup semifinal, with Sachin Tendulkar’s composed 85 and MS Dhoni’s tactical brilliance sealing the deal.
With history as its background, the next Champions Trophy showdown in Dubai is set to write another chapter in this iconic rivalry.
