India’s Explosive Form Prompts Srikkanth’s Warning to Pakistan Ahead of T20 World Cup

India’s dominant run in T20 international cricket has triggered strong reactions across the cricketing world, with former captain Kris Srikkanth declaring that most teams would be intimidated by the Indian side’s current batting firepower ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. In a light-hearted but pointed remark, Srikkanth even joked that Pakistan should consider skipping the tournament to avoid being overwhelmed by India’s red-hot form.

India’s explosive performances in the ongoing five-match T20I series against New Zealand have underlined their status as early favourites for the global event, which begins on February 7. The series is India’s final competitive outing before the World Cup, and the hosts have used it to send a clear warning to rivals.

In the third T20I in Guwahati, India chased down a target of 154 in just 10 overs, producing one of the most ruthless batting displays in T20I history. Abhishek Sharma smashed a 14-ball half-century, while captain Suryakumar Yadav struck a rapid 57 off 26 deliveries. The chase became the second-fastest successful pursuit of a 150-plus total in men’s T20 internationals.

India dominated New Zealand’s bowling from the outset, not allowing a single over to go for fewer than 10 runs. They wrapped up the match with eight wickets in hand and 60 balls remaining, securing a 3–0 lead in the series. The performance came just days after India chased down 209 in only 15.2 overs, the fastest successful pursuit of a 200-plus target by a Full Member nation in T20I cricket.

Reacting to these performances, Srikkanth said India’s aggressive approach could scare opponents into submission. He joked that teams might decide it is better not to turn up at all rather than face such destructive batting. Referring to recent comments from Pakistan officials about participation uncertainties, Srikkanth remarked that Pakistan might be better off staying away if they wanted to avoid heavy defeats.

The comments also drew attention to off-field uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s participation. Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi had earlier indicated that Pakistan’s participation in the tournament was subject to government approval, citing dissatisfaction with scheduling decisions. However, Pakistan’s announcement of their World Cup squad has since indicated that they are likely to take part.

The International Cricket Council has reportedly warned of serious consequences should any team withdraw from the tournament. India and Pakistan have been drawn in the same group, alongside the USA, Namibia and the Netherlands, with their much-anticipated clash scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.

Beyond team results, Srikkanth reserved special praise for Abhishek Sharma, highlighting the ease and consistency with which the young batter scores at a staggering strike rate. According to Srikkanth, Abhishek’s fearless strokeplay and wide scoring range have left bowlers uncertain and under pressure from the very first ball.

With India consistently posting and chasing massive totals at unprecedented speed, their approach has redefined expectations in T20 cricket. As the World Cup approaches, India’s form has not only boosted confidence among fans but also sent a clear message to the rest of the field: facing this Indian batting line-up will be a daunting challenge.