India vs Netherlands: ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Match Preview – February 18, 2026

Match: India vs Netherlands
Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Group A
Match Number: 36th Match
Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 18, 2026; Match starts at 7:00 PM IST (13:30 GMT)
Toss Time: 6:30 PM IST
Live Broadcast: Star Sports (India) | Streaming: JioCinema (India), YouTube/ICC (Global)

Match Overview

India, the defending champions, are set to face the Netherlands in the 36th match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The Indian team, having already secured their place in the Super Eight stage, will look to finish the group stage with a perfect record.

Suryakumar Yadav, who has led India in this tournament, has been in scintillating form, scoring 128 runs in three matches at a strike rate of 140.66. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, and Rinku Singh have also contributed crucially in the batting department.

On the other hand, the Netherlands, led by captain Scott Edwards, have had a mixed campaign. They managed a seven-wicket win against Namibia but suffered defeats against Pakistan and the USA. With one match left in the group stage, the Dutch side will aim to put up a strong performance and send a message ahead of the Super Eight.

Key Players to Watch

India – Suryakumar Yadav

The Mumbai batter has been a revelation in this tournament, playing explosive innings and anchoring the middle order when required. His ability to score in all parts of the innings makes him a key player to watch.

India – Varun Chakravarthy

The leg-spinner has emerged as a match-winner for India in this tournament. He has picked up six wickets in nine overs across three matches, and his ability to pick up crucial breakthroughs could decide the match.

Netherlands – Bas de Leede

The all-rounder has been the standout performer for the Netherlands so far, with 848 runs and 44 wickets to his name. His experience and all-round contributions will be vital for the Dutch side.

Netherlands – Roelof van der Merwe

The explosive seamer brings pace and aggression to the Dutch bowling attack. His ability to pick up wickets and maintain pressure will be crucial in challenging the Indian batters.

Pitch & Conditions

The Narendra Modi Stadium is known for being a batters' paradise, with a fast outfield and a pitch that offers good carry. Runs are expected to flow at a brisk pace, and bowlers will need to maintain tight lines and lengths to restrict the opposition. The weather is expected to be clear with minimal chance of rain, allowing for a full contest.

Probable Playing XIs

India (XI):

1. Abhishek Sharma
2. Ishan Kishan (wk)
3. Tilak Varma
4. Suryakumar Yadav (c)
5. Rinku Singh
6. Hardik Pandya
7. Shivam Dube
8. Varun Chakravarthy
9. Axar Patel
10. Arshdeep Singh
11. Jasprit Bumrah

Netherlands (XI):

1. Michael Levitt
2. Colin Ackermann
3. Max O’Dowd
4. Bas de Leede
5. Logan van Beek
6. Scott Edwards (c/wk)
7. Zach Lion Cachet
8. Kyle Klein
9. Aryan Dutt
10. Roelof van der Merwe
11. Fred Klaassen

Head-to-Head

India and the Netherlands have played 110 T20Is against each other, with India holding a dominant edge in the head-to-head record. India’s superior depth in batting and bowling, especially in high-pressure conditions, gives them a clear advantage going into this match.

Match Prediction

India, with their strong batting lineup and world-class bowling attack, are the clear favorites to win this match. Suryakumar Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy are expected to play pivotal roles for India, while the Netherlands will need a collective effort to pull off an upset.

However, given the form and depth of the Indian side, they are expected to register a commanding win and end the group stage with a perfect record.

Predicted Winner: India
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