A euphoric nation erupted into celebration as India scored a sensational lastball win over subcontinent rivals Pakistan in the opening oneday encounter of the historic cricket series, against the hush that descended on the National Stadium in Karachi.

Cricketcrazy fans poured out into the streets as India lifted their bowling performance when it mattered most to register a fiverunwin and take a 10 lead in the fivematch series.

The entire nation appeared to have come to a standstill as the match was stretched to the wire, the Pakistanis needing just nine runs off the last over.

It was salvation for Ashish Nehra, who bowled the highpressure 50th over, as he stopped the Green Shirts in their tracks to gift the Indian team and fans a memorable win.