ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 – Predicting the India XI and Pakistan XI for their group-stage clash

India and Pakistan are set to reignite their historic rivalry in a high-voltage Group-stage encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The clash adds even more value, considering the winner from the contest will most likely finish at the top of Group A.

Both teams boast match-winners across departments, capable of turning the game on its head within a matter of overs. While India’s depth in all-round options and bowling variety gives them balance, Pakistan’s blend of flair and unpredictability makes them equally dangerous. With such fine margins expected, both sides are likely to stick to their strongest available combinations for the much-awaited clash between two arch-rivals.

India’s predicted Playing XI

Top Order: Abhishek Sharma/Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma

India’s opening combination could depend on Abhishek Sharma’s fitness. If fit, his aggressive intent in the powerplay adds left-handed dynamism at the top. Alternatively, Sanju Samson offers experience and stroke-making ability.

Ishan Kishan’s attacking mindset complements the opener well, while Tilak Varma provides stability at No. 3 with his calm approach and ability to accelerate once set. If Abhishek Sharma is fit, he will replace Sanju Samson at the top.

Middle Order: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube

Captain Suryakumar Yadav remains India’s X-factor. His 360-degree strokeplay can dismantle bowling attacks in the middle overs. Hardik Pandya brings balance as a pace-bowling all-rounder, capable of finishing games with the bat and delivering key breakthroughs. Pandya recently scored a memorable fifty against Namibia, and Men in Blue would want him to continue his form with the bat.  Shivam Dube’s power-hitting ability against spin makes him a valuable asset in high-pressure situations.

Lower Order: Rinku Singh/Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel

India’s combination at No. 7 could vary depending on conditions. Rinku Singh strengthens the batting depth with his finishing prowess, while Kuldeep Yadav offers an additional wrist-spin option if the surface demands it. It will be interesting to see if India persists with Rinku despite two failures or go with Kuldeep to add a third spinning option.  Axar Patel continues to provide crucial balance with his left-arm spin and handy lower-order batting contributions.

Bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

India’s bowling attack will revolve around Jasprit Bumrah, whose control and death-overs expertise make him a constant threat. Arshdeep Singh adds variety with his left-arm pace and ability to swing the new ball. He recently completed 400 T20 wickets. Varun Chakaravarthy’s mystery spin could prove decisive in the middle overs, especially against Pakistan’s right-heavy batting line-up.

Pakistan’s predicted  Playing XI

Top Order: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan

Pakistan are expected to persist with the aggressive Saim Ayub at the top, despite not-so-great performances in the tournament so far. His fearless approach in the powerplay can provide momentum. Sahibzada Farhan complements him with composure and the ability to build an innings if early wickets fall. His record against India is impressive, so Farhan will look to replicate that.

Middle Order: Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk)

Captain Salman Agha plays a crucial role in stabilising the innings and rotating strike efficiently. Babar Azam remains Pakistan’s most technically sound batter, capable of anchoring the innings under pressure.

Usman Khan adds firepower in the middle overs, with his attacking instincts often shifting momentum quickly. But he will be under pressure after scoring two consecutive ducks.

All-rounders: Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf

Pakistan’s all-round depth adds flexibility. Shadab Khan’s leg-spin and finishing ability make him a key asset. Mohammad Nawaz provides left-arm spin control and batting depth, while Faheem Ashraf adds seam-bowling balance and lower-order hitting. Ashraf was the key man in Men in Green’s victory over Netherlands.

Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed

Shaheen Afridi will spearhead the pace attack, looking to strike early with the new ball. His battle against India’s top order could shape the contest.

Usman Tariq offers his mystery spin, while Abrar Ahmed’s leg spin will be vital in controlling the middle overs against aggressive Indian batting.

India’s Predicted Playing XI:

Abhishek Sharma/Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh/Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.

Pakistan’s Predicted Playing XI:

Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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