Team India will aim to continue their winning momentum in the T20 World Cup 2026 when they face Namibia in a crucial Group A clash in Delhi on Thursday. With the high-voltage encounter against Pakistan just three days away in Colombo, this match becomes important for rhythm and combinations.
Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India started their campaign on a positive note with a 29-run victory over the United States on February 7. The Men in Blue will once again start as strong favourites against Namibia.
Strong Comeback in Opener
In the opening match, India were put into bat and found themselves in serious trouble at 77/6. However, skipper Suryakumar Yadav led from the front with a sensational unbeaten 84, guiding India to 161/9 in 20 overs.
The bowlers then did their job perfectly, restricting the USA to 132/8 and sealing a comfortable win.
Key Concerns Before Namibia Clash
Despite the win, India have a few concerns ahead of the Namibia game.
❓ Abhishek Sharma’s Fitness
Opener Abhishek Sharma was hospitalised in Delhi due to a stomach infection. Although he has now been discharged, his availability remains uncertain.
Tilak Varma confirmed during the pre-match press conference that a final decision will be taken closer to the match.
If Abhishek fails to recover in time, Sanju Samson could get an opportunity in the playing XI.
Can Sanju Samson Grab His Chance?
Sanju Samson has not been in the best form recently. He managed only 46 runs in five T20Is against New Zealand. He also missed the opening match against the USA.
However, if he gets a chance against Namibia, it could be the perfect platform for the Kerala batter to bounce back and silence critics.
Jasprit Bumrah Likely to Return
India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return after missing the USA match due to viral fever.
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that Bumrah has resumed bowling after a 10-day break and is feeling much better.
If Bumrah returns, Mohammad Siraj may have to make way despite his impressive figures of 3/29 in the last game.
Spin Combination
Varun Chakravarthy is likely to retain his spot ahead of Kuldeep Yadav. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar has joined the squad but is unlikely to feature as he is still regaining full match fitness after injury.
🔵 India’s Predicted Playing XI vs Namibia
Ishan Kishan
Sanju Samson
Suryakumar Yadav (C)
Tilak Varma
Rinku Singh
Shivam Dube
Hardik Pandya
Axar Patel
Arshdeep Singh
Jasprit Bumrah
Varun Chakravarthy
With Pakistan clash around the corner, India will look to fine-tune their combinations and build confidence with another win.
