T20 World Cup 2026 – Predicting the Pakistan XI and the Netherlands XI for Match 1

Pakistan will face the Netherlands in a Group A fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with both teams entering the contest with contrasting strengths and expectations. The match is scheduled to be played on February 7 at Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo.

Pakistan arrive as one of the stronger sides on paper, banking on a revamped top order and a formidable bowling attack, while the Netherlands will rely on experience, all-round depth, and tactical discipline to stay competitive.

With conditions expected to offer something for both pace and spin, team combinations will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome.

Predicted Pakistan Playing XI

Top Order: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha (C)

Pakistan are likely to open with the aggressive Saim Ayub alongside Sahibzada Farhan, a pairing that offers early intent and flexibility. Captain Salman Agha at No.3 provides stability and game awareness, allowing Pakistan to control the tempo through the powerplay and early middle overs.

Middle Order: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan

Babar Azam remains the cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting, anchoring the innings when required. Fakhar Zaman’s ability to counterattack adds explosiveness, while Usman Khan strengthens the middle order with his ability to accelerate against both pace and spin.

Lower Order: Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan

Mohammad Nawaz adds left-handed balance and control with the ball, while Shadab Khan’s all-round skillset makes him vital during the middle overs and in pressure situations.

Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed

Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah form a lethal pace combination capable of early breakthroughs. Abrar Ahmed’s mystery spin offers variety and could be a key factor against a Netherlands batting unit still adapting to elite spin bowling.

Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 squad

Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq

Predicted Netherlands Playing XI

Top Order: Michael Levitt, Max O’Dowd, Colin Ackermann

Michael Levitt is expected to provide intent at the top, while Max O’Dowd’s experience offers stability. Colin Ackermann’s presence at No.3 adds flexibility, allowing him to anchor or attack as required.

Middle Order: Bas de Leede, Scott Edwards (C & WK), Zach Lion-Cachet, Noah Croes

Bas de Leede remains the Netherlands’ most influential all-rounder and a key middle-order pillar. Captain Scott Edwards brings composure and leadership behind the stumps, while Zach Lion-Cachet and Noah Croes provide adaptability and depth.

Lower Order: Roelof van der Merwe, Logan van Beek

Roelof van der Merwe’s vast T20 experience strengthens the lower order, particularly against spin. Logan van Beek offers seam-bowling all-around value and late-order hitting ability.

Bowlers: Aryan Dutt, Kyle Klein

Aryan Dutt’s off-spin provides control through the middle overs, while Kyle Klein adds pace and variation, especially with the new ball.

Netherlands T20 World Cup 2026 squad:

Scott Edwards (c), Colin Ackermann, Noah Croes, Bas de Leede, Aryan Dutt, Fred Klaassen, Kyle Klein, Michael Levitt, Zach Lion-Cachet, Max O’Dowd, Logan van Beek, Timm van der Gugten, Roelof van der Merwe, Paul van Meekeren, Saqib Zulfiqar.

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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