India, already qualified for the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026, may make two changes in their final Group A clash against the Netherlands in Ahmedabad on February 18.
Reports suggest Jasprit Bumrah could be rested to manage workload ahead of the high-stakes Super 8 round. Arshdeep Singh, who missed the Pakistan match due to a spin-heavy strategy, is likely to return and lead the pace attack on the batting-friendly Ahmedabad surface.
Washington Sundar is expected to feature for the first time in this tournament. His inclusion would provide India with additional batting depth and off-spin utility, possibly replacing Varun Chakaravarthy or a middle-order batter.
Despite two consecutive ducks, the management is set to back Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order, giving him one more opportunity to find form before the Super 8s.
India’s Super 8 schedule places them in Group 1 alongside South Africa, West Indies, and Zimbabwe. Their first match will be against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on February 22.
India’s record in T20 World Cups remains impressive, with 38 wins from 56 matches across ten editions, including two titles in 2007 and 2024. The team aims to continue its unbeaten run and defend its crown successfully.
