India will look to fine-tune their preparations for the Super 8 stage when they face the Netherlands in their final Group A fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, February 18.
With qualification already sealed, the match is less about survival and more about rhythm, combinations, and one big question: when will Abhishek Sharma explode?
Big Picture: India’s Focus Shifts to Momentum
India have been clinical so far, dominating every opponent in the group stage. Wins over USA, Namibia and arch-rivals Pakistan have ensured a smooth entry into the Super 8s.
But despite the results, there are areas to sharpen:
- Abhishek Sharma’s form remains a concern
- India’s middle order still hasn’t faced a full test
- The approach against spin has looked slightly cautious
Ahmedabad presents the perfect stage for India to iron out those creases before the knockouts.
Spotlight: Abhishek Sharma’s Search for Runs
Few batters in world cricket can change a game in the powerplay like Abhishek Sharma, but this World Cup has been frustrating so far:
- Duck in the opener
- Missed Namibia match due to illness
- Another duck against Pakistan
Opposition teams have also adjusted quickly, placing fielders in his hitting zones, especially deep cover and midwicket.
With nothing at stake, this is the ideal match for Abhishek to play freely and rediscover his destructive best.
India vs Netherlands: Key Talking Points
India vs Spin
Namibia’s Erasmus and Pakistan’s Usman Tariq slowed India down with unorthodox spin. The Netherlands attack isn’t as threatening, but India will want a better display.
Rest & Rotation
India may choose to rest key bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, giving Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh more game time.
Netherlands Playing for Pride
After a heavy defeat to USA, the Dutch will want to finish their campaign with a complete performance, even against the defending champions.
Players to Watch
Ishan Kishan (India)
In sublime touch at the top, Kishan has carried India’s batting in the powerplay.
Suryakumar Yadav (India)
The captain has been calm, creative and ruthless — a perfect leader heading into knockouts.
Scott Edwards (Netherlands)
The Dutch skipper remains their best hope in a tough contest.
Roelof van der Merwe (Netherlands)
A seasoned campaigner who could challenge India with experience and variations.
India vs Netherlands: Probable Playing XI
India Playing XI (Probable)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Ishan Kishan (wk)
- Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav (c)
- Hardik Pandya
- Shivam Dube
- Rinku Singh
- Washington Sundar
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Arshdeep Singh
- Mohammed Siraj
(Bumrah and Axar could be rested)
Netherlands Playing XI (Probable)
- Michael Levitt
- Max O’Dowd
- Bas de Leede
- Colin Ackermann
- Scott Edwards (c/wk)
- Zach Lion-Cachet
- Roelof van der Merwe
- Logan van Beek
- Aryan Dutt
- Kyle Klein
- Fred Klaassen
Match Details: Toss Time & Start Time
- Match: India vs Netherlands, Group A
- Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Toss Time
⏰ 6:30 PM IST
Match Start Time
⏰ 7:00 PM IST
India vs Netherlands Live Streaming & Telecast
Live Telecast in India
📺 Star Sports Network
Live Streaming in India
📱 JioHotstar app and website
When will the India vs Netherlands match in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 take place?
The India vs Netherlands match will be played on Wednesday, February 18.
Where will the India vs Netherlands match in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 be played?
The match will take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
What time will the toss for the India vs Netherlands match take place?
The toss will take place at 6:30 PM IST.
What time will the first ball of the India vs Netherlands match be bowled?
The first ball will be bowled at 7:00 PM IST.
Where to watch the live telecast of India vs Netherlands match in India?
The match will be televised live on the Star Sports Network.
Where to watch the live streaming of India vs Netherlands match in India?
The live streaming will be available on the JioHotstar app and website.
