T20 World Cup 2026: On Thursday evening, India faces Namibia today in their second T20 World Cup 2026 match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. India kicked off the tournament with a win and now with Suryakumar Yadav leading, they’re hungry to keep that streak going. Namibia, meanwhile, lost to the Netherlands on this same pitch and will be eager for a comeback. Though the job will be quite tough for them
Abhishek Sharma’s fitness remains in doubt
Before this clash there’s a bit of worry around Abhishek Sharma. He’s been battling a stomach infection and fever, even ended up in a Delhi hospital. He’s has been discharged, but nobody’s sure if he’ll play today. If Abhishek sits out, Sanju Samson could step up as opener. Samson’s aggressive style might just give India the punch they need in the powerplay.
Bumrah’s return will boost confidence
Good news for India is that Jasprit Bumrah is back. He missed the opener against the USA because of a fever, but he’s fit again and bowled in the nets. Looks like he’ll slot straight back into the XI against Namibia. If that happens, Mohammed Siraj will probably make way. Bumrah’s return gives the bowling attack some real bite, especially in the final overs.
Finding rhythm before the Pakistan match is crucial
India’s batters, apart from Suryakumar, didn’t really fire in the first game. So, this match is a big chance for them to find their groove before the huge clash with Pakistan on February 15. If Samson and Ishan Kishan open, India could get off to a flying start. In the middle, Tilak Verma and Suryakumar have what it takes to build a big score, and Rinku Singh will be ready to finish strong.
To keep things balanced, India might go with three all-rounders, i.e. Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel. That gives them options both with bat and ball. Varun Chakravarthy should take charge of spin with Axar Patel backing him up. And in pace, Arshdeep Singh and Bumrah look set to be the main weapons.
Probable XI for India: Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Verma, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah.
