Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has delivered a powerful endorsement of the current Indian T20 cricket team, stating that the side appears "almost impossible to beat" as they continue their dominant run ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Pathan's comments came following India's emphatic eight-wicket victory over New Zealand in the third T20 International at Guwahati, which secured an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.
Pathan's Bold Assessment on YouTube
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Irfan Pathan emphasized that India's fearless and ultra-aggressive batting approach is not only securing victories but also sending a clear warning to rival teams before the global tournament. "It seems almost impossible to beat this Indian team. It looks like whoever comes against them will be completely destroyed. That's the kind of cricket they are playing," Pathan declared, underscoring the immense pressure India is exerting on even the strongest opponents in world cricket.
Dominant Performance in Guwahati
In the third T20I at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, New Zealand managed to post 153/9 after being asked to bat first. India, however, made light work of the chase, reaching the target in just 10 overs despite losing Sanju Samson for a golden duck early in the innings. The chase was spearheaded by Abhishek Sharma, who smashed a blistering 68 not out off just 20 balls, including seven fours and five sixes at a staggering strike rate of 340. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav provided strong support with an unbeaten 57 off 26 deliveries, showcasing the team's explosive batting depth.
Unwavering Mindset and Intimidation Factor
Pathan highlighted how India's aggressive mindset remains unchanged even after early setbacks. "Even when wickets fall early, like Sanju Samson getting out on the first ball, there's no change in their approach. They still managed to score 16 runs in the same over. As a bowler, you feel safe after taking a wicket, but there's no safe zone against this Indian team," he explained, praising the team's consistency and resilience.
The former left-arm pacer added that India's brand of cricket is intimidating top cricketing nations worldwide. "Their approach scares teams like Australia, South Africa, England, and West Indies. The Indian team is playing unreal cricket," Pathan noted, warning that opponents heading into the World Cup have "no margin for error" when facing this formidable unit.
Looking Ahead to T20 World Cup 2026
India, who will co-host the 2026 T20 World Cup alongside Sri Lanka starting February 7, aim to retain the title they won in 2024 under Rohit Sharma's leadership. Pathan reiterated, "The Indian team is absolutely terrifying other teams ahead of the World Cup," capturing the prevailing sentiment around a squad that currently appears a step ahead of the competition. With their relentless performance and strategic aggression, the Indian T20 team is positioning itself as the team to beat in the upcoming global championship.
