New Delhi, March 2 (NationPress) Former Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma reminisced about pivotal moments that have defined the thrilling rivalry between India and Pakistan since the commencement of the ICC T20 World Cup in 2007. He emphasized that the inaugural final stands out as his most cherished T20 World Cup match against the Asian adversaries.

'Nothing can compare to that': Rohit names the 2007 final vs Pakistan as his top T20 WC match

New Delhi, March 2 (NationPress) Former Indian skipper Rohit Sharma reflected on significant events that have shaped the exhilarating rivalry between India and Pakistan since the tournament's inception. He identified the final in 2007 as his favorite T20 World Cup clash against their continental rivals.

Before the upcoming 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, where Rohit serves as an ambassador, he has been part of every India–Pakistan match in T20 World Cup history. From his debut as a young player in 2007 to leading victories against their rivals in 2022 and 2024, Rohit's journey through this iconic rivalry has been extraordinary.

“My favorite T20 World Cup match against Pakistan was undoubtedly the final we played; nothing can compare to that. We emerged victorious in the World Cup,” Rohit stated, as reported by the ICC.

In the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, India and Pakistan faced each other twice. Prior to the final, a league match ended in a tie, which was resolved through the tournament’s first-ever bowl-out.

“In that same year (2007), we also played a league match against Pakistan, which was the only game in the tournament settled by a bowl-out, and we triumphed there too. Therefore, both World Cup matches in 2007 were remarkable,” Rohit reminisced.

Another notable encounter between India and Pakistan occurred during the 2022 T20 World Cup at the MCG. Rohit watched anxiously from the sidelines after being dismissed early, as his team made a stunning comeback to achieve a historic victory.

“Yes, I was in the dressing room. I came out, but felt nervous and returned inside. When matches are this close, especially when you're off the field and unable to influence the outcome, it strips away your sense of control, making you feel powerless. You genuinely feel helpless watching the game progress while being unable to contribute,” Rohit expressed.

While chasing 160, India found themselves in a precarious situation at 31/4, but a phenomenal innings by Virat Kohli led to a memorable victory.

“Kohli played exceptionally well. That was incredibly special to witness because we were in a difficult position to win, especially given our start.

“However, the way we concluded the match was magnificent. It ranks among the greatest cricket games we've ever participated in—due to the occasion. It was a World Cup match, crucial for our success, and the comeback made it even more memorable,” the captain who led India to the 2024 T20 World Cup victory remarked.

Rohit, who concluded his T20I career after 160 appearances in the format, revealed that he continues to feel nervous before every match, and this persistent nervousness fuels his passion for cricket.

“I’ve participated in 160 T20 Internationals for India. I can’t recall a single game when I wasn't nervous. I was anxious for each and every match. That sensation creates nervousness, and I believe that as long as I hold this bat and step onto the field, that feeling will never disappear. It remains with me, and it signifies that I still wish to go out, play the game, and give my utmost,” Rohit concluded.