NEW DELHI: The 1996 World Cup quarterfinal between India and Pakistan, held in Bangalore, has become one of the most iconic matches in the history of the sport, not just for its intense rivalry but for a legendary moment that unfolded between Indian fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad and Pakistani opener Aamir Sohail.
India batted first, posting a competitive total of 287, thanks to contributions from Navjot Singh Sidhu and Ajay Jadeja.Pakistan, chasing 288 to win, started strong with openers Saeed Anwar and Aamir Sohail. Sohail’s bold strokes made it clear that he intended to dominate India’s bowling attack.
Ind vs Pak 1996 World Cup QF Amir Sohail vs Venkatesh Prasad off stump moment
It was during this high-pressure chase that one of cricket’s most famous confrontations occurred. With Pakistan cruising at 109/1 in 14.4 overs, Sohail, after smashing Prasad for a boundary through the off-side, pointed his bat towards the boundary and gestured aggressively at Prasad as if to taunt him, signaling that he would hit another one in the same direction.
Prasad, known for his calm demeanor, did not respond with words. Instead, he let the ball do the talking. On the very next delivery, Prasad bowled a sharp, precise delivery that uprooted Sohail’s off-stump.
The Indian crowd erupted, and the moment became etched in World Cup folklore. The bold celebration from Sohail turned into a moment of silence, and Prasad’s calm yet emphatic reaction added to the drama.
This dismissal marked a turning point in the match. Pakistan, despite a strong start, began to lose wickets in quick succession and eventually folded for 248, handing India a famous 39-run victory and a place in the semifinals.
For Indian cricket fans, this encounter between Prasad and Sohail remains a symbol of mental toughness and composure under pressure.
It was more than just a wicket – it was a moment that embodied India’s fighting spirit and resilience in one of the fiercest rivalries in the sport.
Prasad’s dismissal of Sohail not only broke Pakistan’s momentum but also became one of the most cherished memories in India’s World Cup history.
