When Mushtaq Ahmed shattered Team India's dreams

NEW DELHI: The 1996

Sahara Cup

final at the

Toronto Cricket Club

stands out as one of the most memorable encounters between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. This match was the culmination of a five-match series, drawing significant attention due to the intense rivalry and high stakes.
India started the series with a convincing 8-wicket victory in the first ODI.

However, Pakistan responded strongly in the second game, clinching a thrilling 2-wicket win.
India bounced back in a low-scoring affair, defeating Pakistan by 55 runs.

The fourth ODI saw Pakistan dominate with a massive 97-run victory, setting the stage for a decisive fifth match.

Winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first in the fifth ODI.
The innings began steadily, with solid contributions from Aamer Sohail (44), Saeed Anwar (14), and Ijaz Ahmed (27).
A pivotal performance came from Saleem Malik, whose 43 runs off 47 balls helped Pakistan reach a total of 213/9.

In reply, India faced a daunting challenge, particularly against Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack led by the talented

Mushtaq Ahmed.
The leg-spinner turned the tide in Pakistan's favour, claiming five wickets for just 36 runs, leaving Indian batsmen in disarray.

He dismissed key players, including Ajay Jadeja (20), Rahul Dravid (20), Sunil Joshi (2), Mohammad Azharuddin (2), and Aashish Kapoor (18).
Despite some effort from the Indian batsmen, they struggled to form partnerships and ultimately fell to the pressure exerted by Pakistan’s bowlers.
India were bowled out for 161 runs, handing Pakistan a convincing victory by 52 runs.
Mushtaq Ahmed’s outstanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award, further solidifying his impact in this historic rivalry.