IND vs PAK: All possible changes in India's playing 11 for match 27 of T20 World Cup 2026

India and Pakistan will clash on February 15 at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

India and Pakistan are pulling their socks up for their next encounter of T20 World Cup 2026, which will take place on February 15 at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Both teams are placed in Group A in the tournament and have played two games so far.

Both India and Pakistan won their first two games in the tournament. The Suryakumar Yadav & Co. outplayed USA by 29 runs in the first match and Namibia in the second game by 93 runs. On the other hand, Pakistan crushed Netherlands by three wickets in the first game and USA by 32 runs in the second match.

Notably, India missed the services of Jasprit Bumrah in the first game due to illness, and opener Abhishek Sharma in the second game due to stomach issues. The clash against Pakistan is a crucial one where India will play their strongest side. A few changes are expected in the playing XI and below are three possible changes India could go ahead with.

3 changes India could make for their T20 World Cup 2026 clash against Pakistan

3. Abhishek Sharma in place of Sanju Samson

Abhishek Sharma missed the previous game due to a stomach issue. In his absence, Sanju Samson was added into the playing XI. However, he could not make a mark and got out for 22 runs. Sharma has recovered from illness and is expected to take back his opening position in the next game.

2. Washington Sundar in place of Rinku Singh

Spin all-rounder Washington Sundar has recovered from his injury. Sundar suffered a rib injury last month in the ODI series against New Zealand but has recovered from the issue. His addition will add more assistance to both batting and bowling. Hence, he might be added to the playing XI over Rinku Singh, considering the spin-friendly nature of pitch in Colombo.

1. Kuldeep Yadav in place Arshdeep Singh

Since the India vs Pakistan match will take place R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, a spin-friendly and slow wicket will be on offer. This means, spinners will be get more help from surface in the playing XI. Hence, India might go ahead with Kuldeep Yadav over Arshdeep Singh to add depth to their spin department.

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