India is set to face off against the Netherlands in Match No. 36 of the T20 World Cup 2026 on February 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The hosts have already secured their spot in the Super Eight stage with impressive victories over Pakistan, Namibia, and the USA. India will be aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak in the group stage and carry their winning momentum into the next round.
On the other hand, the Netherlands have managed to secure one victory against Namibia but fell short in their matches against Pakistan and the USA. The Dutch team will be looking to cause an upset against the hosts and secure two more wins to keep their hopes alive for advancing to the next stage of the tournament.
### Match Details
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is known for offering excellent batting conditions, allowing players to score freely. The large dimensions of the ground make it easier for batters to find gaps and accumulate runs without much restriction. However, bowlers will need to maintain disciplined lines and lengths, as any loose deliveries are likely to be punished by the opposition.
### Head to Head T20I Record
In terms of their head-to-head T20I record, India has historically been dominant against the Netherlands. However, T20 cricket is known for its unpredictability, and the Dutch side will be looking to put up a strong fight against the formidable Indian team.
### Predicted Playing 11s
#### India:
– Abhishek Sharma
– Ishan Kishan (wk)
– Tilak Varma
– Suryakumar Yadav (c)
– Hardik Pandya
– Shivam Dube
– Rinku Singh
– Axar Patel
– Arshdeep Singh
– Varun Chakaravarthy
– Jasprit Bumrah
#### Netherlands:
– Michael Levitt
– Max O’Dowd
– Bas de Leede
– Colin Ackermann
– Scott Edwards (c) (wk)
– Zach Lion-Cachet
– Logan van Beek
– Aryan Dutt
– Roelof van der Merwe
– Kyle Klein
– Fred Klaassen
### Probable Best Performers of the Match
#### Probable Best Batter: Suryakumar Yadav
Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has been in impressive form, scoring 128 runs in three games at a strike rate of 140.66. He played a pivotal role in India’s win against the USA and will look to continue his rich vein of form against the Netherlands, aiming to make a significant impact in setting a positive tone for India in the Super Eight stage.
#### Probable Best Bowler: Varun Chakravarthy
Indian mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy has been a standout performer, taking six wickets in the nine overs he has bowled across three games. His ability to turn the game in crucial moments has been vital for India, and he will be expected to deliver once again against the Netherlands.
### Today’s Match Prediction
Considering the current form and the overall strength of the two teams, India is predicted to come out on top in this match. However, T20 cricket is known for its surprises, and the Netherlands will be determined to give a tough fight to the hosts and keep their hopes alive in the tournament.
### Match Preview
The upcoming clash between India and the Netherlands in the T20 World Cup 2026 is poised to be an exciting encounter between two contrasting teams. India, with their powerhouse batting lineup and formidable bowling attack, have been dominant in the group stage, showcasing their depth and versatility. On the other hand, the Netherlands, though considered underdogs, have displayed glimpses of potential and resilience, especially in their victory against Namibia.
### Key Factors to Watch
#### Pitch Conditions:
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is expected to favor batsmen, offering true bounce and even carry. The spinners might come into play as the match progresses, utilizing the dry surface to extract turn and variation. Teams will need to adapt quickly to the conditions to maximize their chances of success.
#### Player Match-Ups:
One intriguing battle to watch out for will be between India’s top-order batsmen and the Netherlands’ pace attack. The likes of Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan will need to negotiate the swing and seam movement that the Dutch bowlers might exploit in the initial overs to put pressure on the Indian batting unit.
### Team Strategies
#### India:
With a strong core of experienced players complemented by emerging talents, India will look to continue their winning streak and maintain their momentum heading into the Super Eight stage. The team’s depth in both batting and bowling departments provides them with the flexibility to adapt to various match situations and combat any challenges posed by the opposition.
#### Netherlands:
The Dutch team, led by Scott Edwards, will be eager to upset the hosts and cause a major upheaval in the group standings. They will rely on their collective effort, with players like Colin Ackermann and Bas de Leede stepping up to deliver impactful performances to keep their hopes of progression alive.
### Impact Players to Watch
#### Suryakumar Yadav (India):
As the captain of the Indian team, Suryakumar Yadav’s aggressive approach and ability to rotate strike seamlessly make him a crucial figure in the batting lineup. His consistency in converting starts into big scores will be pivotal in setting up a challenging total for the Netherlands to chase.
#### Roelof van der Merwe (Netherlands):
An experienced campaigner, Roelof van der Merwe’s left-arm orthodox spin can pose a threat to the Indian batters, especially in the middle overs. His accuracy and variations might prove to be instrumental in putting a lid on India’s run-scoring and picking up crucial wickets.
### Match Outcome Prediction
While India enters the match as the favorite based on their recent form and overall strength, cricket’s unpredictable nature leaves room for surprises. The Netherlands, with their underdog status, will be motivated to stage an upset and announce their presence in the tournament. However, India’s depth in talent and familiarity with the conditions should see them through to another convincing victory, solidifying their status as a top contender in the T20 World Cup 2026.


