India close their league campaign against the Netherlands on February 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. With qualification already secured, the focus now shifts from progression to performance. The Indian camp will want rhythm, fluency and clarity before entering the Super Eight phase.
The Netherlands, meanwhile, arrive with pride at stake. While results haven’t gone their way, they have shown phases of discipline with both bat and ball. Against a strong Indian unit, consistency across 40 overs will be essential.
India Seek Momentum Before Knockouts
Under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership, India have controlled key moments in every match so far. However, the batting group has yet to produce a complete performance in the tournament. Starts have come, but a dominant collective display is still pending.
Ishan Kishan has provided acceleration at the top, striking freely inside the powerplay. Hardik Pandya’s balance as a seam-bowling all-rounder has offered control in middle overs, while Varun Chakravarthy has remained difficult to line up.
One area under scrutiny is the form of Abhishek Sharma, who has not converted opportunities. A strong showing in Ahmedabad could reset his tournament.
Netherlands Playing for Statement Finish
The Dutch side have had moments of resistance, but sustained partnerships have been missing. Bas de Leede has carried responsibility in the middle order, yet the top-order group will need early stability to compete against India’s new-ball attack.
Their bowling unit relies on discipline rather than pace. Containment through the first six overs will determine how competitive they remain.
Narendra Modi Stadium – T20 World Cup 2026 Numbers
- Matches Played: 3
- Wins Batting First: 2
- Wins Chasing: 1
- Average 1st Innings Score: 191.67
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 173.67
- Average Run Rate: 9.38
- Wickets by Pacers: 71.42%
- Wickets by Spinners: 28.57%
The surface has consistently rewarded stroke play. Seamers have taken the majority of wickets, particularly with hard lengths under lights. Spin has played a secondary role so far, though variation in pace remains valuable.
Evening conditions generally support chasing, especially if dew settles.
Weather Outlook – Ahmedabad
| Condition | Forecast |
| Temperature | 24°C |
| Wind Speed | 7 km/h (Westerly) |
| Rain Probability | 0% |
| Cloud Cover | Clear |
Conditions are expected to remain dry and stable, ensuring a full contest without interruption.
Match Outlook
India enter as favourites but will treat this as preparation for sterner tests ahead. A high-scoring contest appears likely, given recent numbers at the venue.
For the Netherlands, this is an opportunity to challenge a leading side and finish their campaign with composure. Execution in the powerplay on both fronts will define how long they stay competitive.
Ahmedabad has delivered runs throughout the tournament — and Wednesday night should be no different.
