India’s innings came to a close at 266 runs, with all wickets falling to Pakistan’s fast bowlers. Shaheen Afridi initially opted for an aggressive inswinging tactic but failed to break through.
However, following a rain delay, he adjusted his length slightly and swiftly dismissed the senior Indian batsmen, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Haris Rauf got Shreyas Iyer out with a short delivery and sent Gill packing with a fuller ball, leaving Pakistan in a dominant position at 66/4.
It was at this juncture that Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya combined forces, displaying remarkable composure as they forged a vital 138-run partnership for the fifth wicket.
During the match against Pakistan, whenever Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan were hitting boundaries and sixes, the crowd in the stadium was playing the ‘Ram Siya Ram’ song. Videos of this moment are now rapidly going viral on social media.
WoW !!
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) September 2, 2023
Ram siya Ram song after every boundary by Hardik during #INDvPAK, that too in Sri Lanka. pic.twitter.com/ko09uBFfOM
The Land of Ravana is playing Ram Siya Ram every time the Land of Rama hits a boundary against Pakistan. Unthinkable on an Indian cricket ground.#indvpak #PAKvIND#AsiaCuppic.twitter.com/I3fRcnkVHD
— Shivani (@shivani__D) September 2, 2023
Hats off to the SANATANI DJ who proudly celebrates our heritage by playing " Ram Siya Ram " after boundary 🏏 Your dedication to showcasing our cultural richness fills our hearts with pride. Keep spreading the essence of being a Sanatani with every beat! 🙏
— HINDUSANATANI ARMYđźš© (@HinduSanataniOG) September 2, 2023
JAI SHREE RAM🚩… pic.twitter.com/Udhm8P45WT
Pakistan allowed the game to lose momentum. Their spinners lacked sharpness, and their fielding was uncharacteristically sloppy. Ishan Kishan showcased an impressive blend of aggression and smart batting, anchoring the innings beautifully.
Haris Rauf eventually put an end to their century partnership. Following Kishan’s departure, Hardik Pandya escalated the scoring, but just as a new partnership began to take shape, Shaheen Afridi struck, dismissing both Hardik and Jadeja in the same over.
India’s fortunes took a sharp downturn, tumbling from 239/5 to 266/10. Naseem Khan bowled exceptionally well and was unfortunate not to claim any wickets in his initial spell, but he staged a strong comeback, ultimately finishing with a three-wicket haul.