India’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign has thrown up an unexpected storyline — the prolonged lean patch of their explosive opener, Abhishek Sharma. Touted as India’s destroyer-in-chief heading into the marquee tournament, Abhishek has endured a nightmare start, registering three consecutive ducks in his first three matches.

For a batter ranked world No. 1 in T20Is not too long ago, the sudden dip has been startling. India may have navigated their group-stage assignments, but Abhishek’s absence on the scoreboard has become a growing concern within the camp and among fans.

The numbers paint a worrying picture. In just eight T20I innings in 2026, Abhishek has already recorded five ducks — equalling the Indian record for most T20I ducks in a calendar year, previously held by Sanju Samson. Even more concerning, he has become the first batter in T20 World Cup history to begin a campaign with three successive zeros.

Sunil Gavaskar explains how Abhishek Sharma can get back his form in T20 World Cup 2026

Amid the scrutiny, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has stepped in with calm, measured advice rather than harsh criticism. Speaking during a broadcast analysis, the legendary batter suggested that the burden of expectations may be weighing heavily on the young opener.

According to Gavaskar, Abhishek’s role as the team’s premier six-hitter and headline act may have subtly altered his approach. Instead, three early failures appear to have tightened his mindset. Gavaskar believes that once self-doubt creeps in, even naturally gifted stroke-makers can lose rhythm.

“Maybe the expectations might be weighing just a little too heavily on him. He is a lovely guy. If he had got a flying start in the first game, things might have been different. But now, you can sense that the expectations of being the big guy, the six-hitter, the No. 1 batter in the team, might be weighing heavily on him,” said Gavaskar on Star Sports.

One of Gavaskar’s key suggestions was simple yet profound — give yourself time. In a format driven by urgency, that advice may sound counterintuitive. But the former captain stressed that Abhishek does not need to announce his arrival with a boundary or a towering six. Gavaskar advised him to avoid playing across the line early in the innings and instead focus on playing straight, assessing conditions, and building a base. Even a handful of dot balls at the start, he argued, should not trigger panic.

The veteran pointed out that a batter of Abhishek’s range can compensate quickly once settled. The key lies in surviving the initial phase and allowing instincts to take over naturally rather than forcing glory shots from ball one.

“I think with the range of shots he has, he has to give himself a little more time in the middle. Not be looking to open his innings with a boundary or a six. If he gets it, then fine – but looking to play across the line for the big shot, no. Even if there are four dot balls, it does not matter because in the next four to eight balls he can make up for that,” Gavaskar added.

Also READ: Fans react as India complete flawless T20 World Cup 2026 group stage run after Shivam Dube stars vs Netherlands

Gavaskar on the key problem with Abhishek

Another concern flagged by Gavaskar was predictability. Opposition bowlers appear to have mapped Abhishek’s aggressive intent, setting traps accordingly. Without early strike rotation or quick singles, pressure has mounted, often leading to rash stroke-play. Gavaskar emphasized the importance of getting off the mark — a small but psychologically significant milestone. Rotating strike, feeling the pitch, and finding rhythm through singles can unlock a batter’s timing and confidence.

“He has to play smart cricket. He has to get the circulation in his legs. He has to get off the mark. If you are playing for India, you have to get off the mark and everything will fall in place. The way he is getting out is very predictable. When you take a couple of singles, you get a sense of the pitch. He will get a big score once he gets set,” Gavaskar added further.

Also READ: IND vs NED: Fans express shock as Abhishek Sharma records third consecutive duck in T20 World Cup 2026

The action moves to the nation’s capital as India Women look to clinch a historic T20I series win on Australian soil. After a dominant, rain-curtailed victory in the first game at the SCG, the Women in Blue head into Canberra with a 1-0 lead and a massive boost in confidence.

The first T20I belonged to India’s bowling unit, specifically Arundhati Reddy, whose career-best 4/22 dismantled the world-renowned Australian batting order. India’s strategy was clear: strike early and often. Renuka Singh Thakur provided the initial breakthrough, and the spinners squeezed the life out of the middle overs. Chasing a rain-adjusted target, Shafali Verma’s aggressive cameo ensured India stayed well ahead of the DLS par score.

For Australia, this is a rare “back against the wall” moment at home. Under the new T20I leadership of Sophie Molineux, the Aussies will be desperate to fix their middle-order collapse. They were bundled out for just 133 in the opener, a total far below their lofty standards. With heavyweights like Ellyse Perry and Beth Mooney in the ranks, expect a fierce counter-attack.

Australia Women vs India Women, 2nd T20I: Match Details

• Date and Time: February 19; 01:45 pm IST/ 08:15 am GMT/ 7:15 pm Local
• Venue: Manuka Oval, Canberra

Manuka Oval Pitch Report

The Manuka Oval is widely regarded as one of the best batting surfaces in Australia, but it offers a “fair fight” for those willing to bend their backs. Batters can trust the bounce here, making it an ideal venue for stroke-makers like Harmanpreet Kaur and Phoebe Litchfield. Unlike smaller subcontinental grounds, the square ropes are quite long. This rewards disciplined bowlers and punishes batters who mistime their “heaves” toward the mid-wicket region. While pacers get some movement with the new ball under lights, the pitch traditionally slows down slightly as the match progresses. Expect Deepti Sharma and Georgia Wareham to play massive roles.

Also READ: Arundhati Reddy’s fiery bowling powers India to emphatic win over Australia in rain-hit first Women’s T20I

Squads

India: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Amanjot Kaur, Vaishnavi Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Shree Charani, Renuka Singh Thakur, Bharti Fulmali, Sneh Rana, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Gunalan Kamalini

Australia: Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney (wk), Georgia Voll, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Kim Garth, Sophie Molineux (c), Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown, Grace Harris, Nicola Carey, Georgia Wareham

Australia Women vs India Women: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• India Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Australia Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
• Australia Women’s total score: 170-190

Case 2:

• Australia Women wins the toss and bowls first
• India Women’s powerplay score: 55-65
• India Women’s total score: 180-200

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: AUS-W vs IND-W, T20I Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, Australia, USA & other countries

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

A classic subcontinental showdown is on the horizon as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 moves to its final group stage fixtures. Co-hosts Sri Lanka face a resurgent Zimbabwe in a Match 38 clash at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium.

With both teams already having secured their spots in the Super 8s after a dramatic turn of events in Group B, most notably Zimbabwe’s stunning upset of Australia earlier in the tournament, this match is a battle for momentum and group supremacy

Sri Lankans have been clinical throughout their home campaign, looking every bit like title contenders as they maintain a perfect winning streak. Led by the experienced Dasun Shanaka, who reclaimed the captaincy just before the tournament, Sri Lanka have utilized familiar conditions to dominate their opponents. Pathum Nissanka has acted as the side’s anchor, notably coming off a brilliant century against Australia, while the bowling duo of Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana has proven lethal on the Colombo tracks.

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, has emerged as the genuine giant-killers of the tournament, scripting a fairy tale with a statement 23-run victory over Australia at this very venue. Despite captain Sikandar Raza battling fitness issues and cramping during high-pressure moments, the Chevrons have displayed incredible unity to remain undefeated, barring a washout against Ireland. The heartbeat of the side remains the evergreen Raza, who continues to contribute with both bat and ball, supported by Blessing Muzarabani, who has been a revelation with his pace and bounce using the new ball.

SL vs ZIM, T20 World Cup 2026: Match details

• Date and Time: February 19; 3:00 pm IST / 9:30 am GMT
• Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

SL vs ZIM, Head-to-Head Record in T20Is

Matches played: 09 | Sri Lanka won: 07 | Zimbabwe won: 02 | No result: 0

R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report

The R. Premadasa Stadium surface is expected to be a traditional subcontinental black soil wicket, playing slow and two-paced as the match progresses. While a thin layer of grass might offer some early carry and bounce for seamers, the pitch will likely deteriorate quickly, offering significant grip for finger and wrist spinners. With large boundary dimensions making power-hitting difficult, batters will need to capitalize on the powerplay before the middle overs become a tactical grind. Consequently, the toss remains crucial; winning captains may prefer bowling first to avoid a difficult start on a grippy, used surface.

Squads

Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan

Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani(w), Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza(c), Dion Myers, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa

Also READ: Corbin Bosch sizzles as South Africa thrash UAE in T20 World Cup 2026

SL vs ZIM, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Sri Lanka wins the toss and bowl first
• Zimbabwe’s powerplay score: 40-50
• Zimbabwe’s total score: 160-170

Case 2:

• Zimbabwe wins the toss and bowl first
• Sri Lanka’s powerplay score: 50-60
• Sri Lanka’s total score: 170-180

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest.

Also WATCH: Sikandar Raza leads joyful celebrations after Zimbabwe’s Super 8 qualification at T20 World Cup 2026

The West Indies will take on Italy in Match 37 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Thursday (February 19) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. While the two-time champions have already secured their Super 8 berth with a flawless record, Italy’s debut campaign comes to a close regardless of Thursday’s result.

West Indies enter the match with three comprehensive wins  – against Scotland, England and Nepal – sitting atop the group with six points and a formidable net run rate of +1.820 .

Meanwhile, Italy – ranked 27th and the tournament’s lowest-ranked team – have exceeded expectations in their first-ever ICC event. After a heavy loss to Scotland, they bounced back with an emphatic 10-wicket victory over Nepal before pushing England to the brink in a narrow 24-run defeat. For them, this match represents a final opportunity to create memories.

WI vs ITA, T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details

• Date and Time: February 19 (Thursday); 11:00 am IST / 5:30 am GMT
• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

WI vs ITA, Head-to-Head Record in T20Is

Both team are yet to face other in international cricket.

Eden Gardens Pitch Report

Eden Gardens has largely justified its tag as a run-friendly venue in this tournament, though it hasn’t been one-sided. The pitch usually offers lively pace and carry for the quicks with the new ball, but as it wears, its abrasive surface starts assisting spin. That brings bowlers like West Indies’ Gudakesh Motie and Italy’s Crishan Kalugamage into the game during the middle overs.

The average first-innings total at this venue in the T20 World Cup 2026 has hovered around 175, underlining the scoring potential while still rewarding disciplined bowling. Given the conditions, the captain winning the toss is likely to bat first and aim to post a challenging total on a fresh track before it slows later in the match.

Squads

West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope (c & wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Romario Shepherd, Jayden Seales, Quentin Sampson, Johnson Charles

Italy: Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti (c), Ben Manenti, Grant Stewart, Marcus Campopiano, Gian Meade (wk), Jaspreet Singh, Crishan Kalugamage, Ali Hasan, Syed Naqvi, Zain Ali, Thomas Draca, Wayne Madsen

Also READ: Corbin Bosch sizzles as South Africa thrash UAE in T20 World Cup 2026

WI vs ITA, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• West Indies wins the toss and bats first
• West Indies powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• West Indies total score: 210-220

Case 2:

• Italy wins the toss and bats first
• Italy powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Italy total score: 180-190

Match result: West Indies to win the contest.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Glenn McGrath questions Cameron Green’s selection over Steve Smith after Australia’s early exit

India will play the Round of Eight matches as an unbeaten side in the group stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. On February 18, the Netherlands tried their best but ended in a 17-run defeat against the defending champion and co-host of the tournament.

Suryakumar Yadav, the captain of Team India, is arguably the happiest man on the planet right now, as his team fought against all kinds of tough situations but still stands tall. After the match, Yadav heaped praise on Shivam Dube for his timely half-century and the bowling department for delivering with impact despite dew on the ground.

Suryakumar Yadav revealed why they went to bat first

Against the Netherlands, India won the toss and went to bat first to post 193 in exchange for 6 wickets. Mostly because of the dew factor, teams often prefer to bowl first. But the Men in Blue decided to walk in the opposite direction. Later, during the post-match presentation ceremony, Suryakumar Yadav revealed that batting first was amongst their plans, keeping the upcoming matches in mind.

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“Yeah, obviously, I think we wanted to bat first. We went on to score 190, and then coming out, there was a little bit of dew, a little bit challenging for the bowlers…we might be in a similar situation on the next day also,” the skipper explained why he elected to bat first.

Suryakumar Yadav praised Shivam Dube for brilliant batting display

Early dismissals of Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan offered India a challenging situation. On 4.2 overs, India was 39 for 2, not an ideal start for a high-caliber team. From there, the middle order of the team stood tall and delivered, especially Shivam Dube.

The captain praised Dube for his 66-run knock against 31 balls. Suryakumar Yadav stated that fifty-plus-run innings helped the team most to achieve the total of 190-plus, which was a good total.

“I think the way he batted in the middle overs took pressure off everyone and took it to 190 on this wicket. I think it was a very good score,” Suryakumar Yadav added.

“I mean, I’m very happy with the way things are moving on. The contribution is almost coming from every single batter. That’s what I want: those small, small partnerships. When the game is a little tight, one or two might have a beautiful day, but then we need support from all the batters to get to a good score,” he concluded.

Varun Chakravarthy pushed the Netherlands batters behind

The Netherlands batter tried well, chasing the competitive target. Though, they managed to get 176 runs for 7 wickets in the 20-over limit. Despite having the dew factor, Varun Chakravarthy, the spinner, claimed three precise wickets in his 3-over spell for an economy rate of 4.67. Dube marked his contribution with his bowling too, bagging a couple of wickets.

Team India will next face South Africa for a Super 8 match on February 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad at 7.00 PM IST.

Read More: Shivam Dube gets heartwarming reception from his teammates and fans after impressive knock against Netherlands

41-year-old Dutchman Roelof van der Merwe took a spectacular catch to dismiss Tilak Varma, who was in good touch against the Netherlands for their last group match of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

Varma tried to clear the long off for a maximum with a big swing, but the timing was not correct. The experienced Netherlands spinner rushed to grab the ball near the boundary rope. Roelof van der Merwe threw his body in the front and took a catch, making no mistake.

India vs Netharlands: A dead rubber

Team India and the Netherlands—both teams have nothing to gain from today’s (February 18) match. India, the co-hosts, and the defending champion have already confirmed their spot in the next round of the tournament, while the Netherlands cricket team is all set to pack their luggage to return to their home.

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Before heading towards the airport, the Dutch national cricket team tried to take one last bite, and that too was against the mighty Team India, who are considered among the hot favorites to claim the title again.

Netharlands started strong

The Netherlands started the match in a top manner, dismissing Abhishek Sharma for a duck. It was the third duck for Sharma in the three matches he played in the tournament. His opening pair, Ishan Kishan, also headed back quickly for only 18 runs.

Those two early wickets did not help the Netherlands in a long way, as the middle-order batters played their parts significantly well. Tilak Varma, captain Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube played some brilliant knocks to secure a total of 193 in 20 overs. Dube smashed a half-century in the process.

Roelof van der Merwe, 41, took a diving catch to dismiss Tilak Varma

Despite the brilliant batting display from the Indian batters, the catch taken by Roelof van der Merwe is among the most spectacular visuals of the first innings. On the last ball of the 9th over, Varma swung his blade sharply against a fuller and well outside off delivery of Logan van Beek. At first glance, the shot looks perfectly placed, and the ball was travelling at a good speed.

Varma might have targeted the over-the-cover region, but the ball eventually went towards the long-off region. Roelof van der Merwe moved to his right and threw himself to grab the ball. Despite a hard landing, the ball stayed intact with the safe hands of the fielder. Varam had to go for a well-made 31 off 27.

Undoubtedly, the Greatest ever catch by 41-year-old Roelof van der Merwe in T20 World Cup. pic.twitter.com/3YqgqGROY4

— World Monitor (@MonitorWarnow) February 18, 2026

Read More: “Feel for Abhishek Sharma”: Netizens react as opener registers three ducks in a row

As the league games reach their final stage and the high-stakes Super 8 phase is about to begin, a piece of bad news has cast a shadow over the T20 World Cup 2026 for fans worldwide. On February 18, 2026, it was officially confirmed that the legendary Dale Steyn will be absent for the remainder of the competition.

While his presence in the commentary box has been a highlight for fans, the legendary former speedster has been forced to head home just as the tournament reaches its knockout intensity. The departure marks a significant loss for the broadcast team during a week where global viewership is expected to hit record highs.

The legendary former Proteas fast bowler Steyn revealed on X that his early exit is due to a severe injury sustained while competing in the Legends League Cricket tour in India. After feeling a sharp snap during a match, Steyn was diagnosed with a torn pectoralis (pec) muscle, an injury he admitted was his body’s way of telling him that his playing days, even in veteran leagues, are taking a significant toll.

The severity of the tear is such that he required immediate shoulder surgery, which was scheduled for Wednesday, February 18. Taking to social media to share the news, Steyn expressed his disappointment at having to leave the World Cup early, stating: “Bummed, but that’s life. Thanks again India, see you in the IPL.” His absence will be keenly felt by the commentary team, especially following his recent high-energy analysis during South Africa‘s nail-biting double-Super Over victory against Afghanistan.

So unfortunately I’ve had to come home early, I’m having shoulder surgery tomorrow which has forced me to miss the remainder of the World Cup in terms of commentary.
Bummed, but that’s life.
Thanks again India, see you in the IPL 😉

— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) February 17, 2026

Tore my pec in the legends league…
Clearly my body is saying something to me 😂

— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) February 17, 2026

Also READ: From Mahela Jayawardene to Kusal Mendis: List of players to record three consecutive 50-plus scores in T20 World Cup history

T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 stakes: India and South Africa clash in Ahmedabad

Steyn’s departure comes at the most critical juncture of the tournament, as the Super Eight phase intensifies across venues in India and Sri Lanka. The marquee fixture of Group G1 features a massive rematch of the 2024 final: India vs South Africa on Sunday, February 22, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both teams have been in imperious form; India are coming off a crushing 61-run win over Pakistan, while the Proteas remain unbeaten after dominating Group D.

Currently, seven of the eight spots are occupied by India, South Africa, West Indies, Zimbabwe, England, Sri Lanka and New Zealand. The final slot is currently being decided at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, where Pakistan are currently batting against Namibia in a must-win clash. A victory or even a washout for Salman Ali Agha’s men would secure their progression, finally ending the USA’s Cinderella-story hopes of a Super 8 berth.

Also READ: Big Bash League set for India debut as Cricket Australia explores plans to stage BBL 2026-27 opener in Chennai

In a stunning display of ‘explosive longevity,’ 41-year-old Netherlands veteran Roelof van der Merwe turned back the clock at the Narendra Modi Stadium on February 18, 2026. During India‘s final T20 World Cup 2026 group-stage match, the ageless player produced a moment of magic that silenced the Ahmedabad crowd and left the cricketing world in awe. His spectacular effort not only dismissed a set batter but also highlighted the immense spirit of a Netherlands side refusing to be intimidated by the tournament favorites.

IND vs NED: 41-year-old Roelof Van der Merwe produces magic to dismiss Tilak Varma

The defining moment of the Dutch fielding masterclass occurred in the 9th over, delivered by Logan van Beek, as India looked to rebuild their innings. Tilak Varma, who had reached 31 off 27 balls and was beginning to find his rhythm, launched a powerful, high-altitude strike toward the long-off boundary. While the shot initially looked destined to clear the rope or fall safely, Roelof van der Merwe had other plans.

Sprinting several meters from his position with the agility of a teenager, the 41-year-old tracked the ball’s trajectory perfectly as it swirled in the Ahmedabad night air. Just as the ball seemed out of reach, he launched into a desperate, full-length sideways dive, stretching his arms to pluck the ball inches from the turf with a sensational reverse-cup catch.

The sheer athleticism required for such a grab at his age left the commentators speechless and provided a ‘teaching moment’ for his younger teammate Michael Levitt, who had dropped a much easier chance earlier in the same over. Van der Merwe’s celebration was as fiery as the catch itself, cementing his status as one of the most competitive veterans still gracing the international stage.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: IND vs NED: Fans express shock as Abhishek Sharma records third consecutive duck in T20 World Cup 2026

Netherlands spinner Aryan Dutt exploits Ahmedabad’s dry conditions to dismantle Indian top order

The match has unfolded as a surprisingly tense battle of attrition rather than the high-scoring ‘run-fest’ many expected from the Ahmedabad surface. India, having won the toss and elected to bat first, found themselves in early trouble as Aryan Dutt exploited the dry conditions to dismantle the top order.

The biggest story remains the historic slump of World No. 1 Abhishek Sharma, who was clean bowled by Dutt for a 3-ball duck, his third consecutive zero in this tournament. Shortly after, Ishan Kishan (18) was bowled in a bizarre fashion when the ball deflected off his body and into the stumps, leaving India wobbling at 44/2 within the powerplay.

The introduction of Tilak and captain Suryakumar Yadav stabilized the ship temporarily, taking the score to 69 before Van der Merwe’s ‘screamer’ removed Varma. As of the 11th over, India sits at 76/3, with Suryakumar (23*) and Shivam Dube (3*) tasked with a major repair job. The Netherlands’ disciplined bowling, led by Dutt’s clinical figures of 2/19, has kept the scoring rate under seven an over, proving that even a ‘dead rubber’ can produce elite-level drama when a giant-killer mindset is applied.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Here’s why Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel are not playing today’s IND vs NED game

Australia‘s campaign at the T20 World Cup 2026 came to an abrupt and disappointing end, and the aftermath has sparked a fiery exchange off the field. After the reigning 2021 champions were knocked out in the league stage, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif took a swipe with “mighty Aussies” — a remark that did not sit well with former Australia batter Damien Martyn.

Australia’s elimination was sealed when the crucial Group B fixture between Zimbabwe and Ireland was washed out due to persistent rain. The abandoned match confirmed that the Aussies would not progress to the Super 8 stage, marking only the second time in ten editions of the T20 World Cup that they failed to move past the group phase.

It was a tournament of missed opportunities for Australia. They began on a positive note with a comfortable win over Ireland, but successive defeats to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka left them hanging by a thread. Ultimately, the weather had the final say, forcing the team to pack their bags earlier than expected.

Mohammed Kaif questions Australia’s “mighty” tag following their early exit from T20 World Cup 2026

Taking to social media platform X, Kaif reflected on Australia’s recent ICC record since their 2023 ODI World Cup triumph. He suggested that the aura of invincibility surrounding the Australians had faded in recent years.

Kaif pointed out that since lifting the 50-over World Cup in 2023, Australia have not managed to clinch another ICC title. They reached the semifinals of the Champions Trophy last year and finished runners-up in the 2025 World Test Championship final, but silverware eluded them.

He also revisited the 2023 World Cup final in Ahmedabad, claiming that had Hardik Pandya been available for India on that historic November evening, the result might have been different. The remark quickly caught attention, with fans debating whether Australia’s dominance is indeed waning or simply going through a temporary dip.

“Mighty Aussies they were called after winning the 2023 50-overs World Cup. After that they had a sharp fall. 2024 World T20, 2025 Champions Trophy, 2025 World Test Championship – they were not Mighty. If Hardik Pandya had played the Ahmedabad final in 2023, the Aussies would have lost there too,” Kaif wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Mighty Aussies they were called after winning the 2023 50-overs World Cup. After that they had a sharp fall. 2024 World T20, 2025 Champions Trophy, 2025 World Test Championship – they were not Mighty. If Hardik Pandya had played the Ahmedabad final in 2023, the Aussies would have…

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) February 17, 2026

Also READ: BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla hails Zimbabwe’s rise after Australia’s dramatic exit from T20 World Cup 2026

Damien Martyn’s calm but firm response

Martyn, who recently made a recovery after battling meningitis and being placed in an induced coma, responded with measured confidence. Rather than engaging in a war of words, he chose to highlight Australia’s long-standing supremacy in world cricket.

In his reply, Martyn acknowledged that no team can remain at the top forever but reminded critics that Australia’s trophy cabinet still tells a compelling story. His message was simple yet pointed — dynasties may experience dips, but they do not disappear overnight.

Notably, Australia remain the most successful team in ODI World Cup history, with six titles to their name. They have also won two Champions Trophy titles, one T20 World Cup, and one World Test Championship. Martyn’s response subtly emphasized that one disappointing tournament does not erase decades of excellence.

“Can’t be great forever. But the cabinet looks pretty good. It will turn again,” responded Martyn.

Can’t be great forever. But the cabinet looks pretty good. It will turn again.

— Damien Martyn🏏 (@damienmartyn) February 18, 2026

Also READ: Big Bash League set for India debut as Cricket Australia explores plans to stage BBL 2026-27 opener in Chennai

The momentum shifted decisively in India’s favour during the 6th over of the Netherlands chase in the T20 World Cup 2026 game when Varun Chakaravarthy produced a delivery that ignited the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Varun Chakaravarthy’s cracker of a delivery sends Max O’Dowd’s leg stump flying

Facing the dangerous Max O’Dowd, who had just broken the shackles with a six off Washington Sundar, Chakravarthy delivered a deceptive, skidding googly that completely flummoxed the batter. O’Dowd, attempting a forceful cross-batted heave into the leg side, misread the length and the trajectory entirely.

The ball darted back in sharply, sneaked past the gap between bat and pad, and crashed directly into the leg stump, uprooting it in spectacular fashion. The sight of the timber flying provided the breakthrough India desperately needed, ending O’Dowd’s stay at 20 and breaking a steady opening partnership. Chakravarthy’s immediate impact in his first over, conceding just three runs and taking a wicket, once again proved why he is India’s “X-factor” spinner heading into the Super 8s.

Here’s the video:

Also WATCH: IND vs NED: 41-year-old Roelof van der Merwe silences Ahmedabad crowd with screamer to dismiss Tilak Varma in T20 World Cup 2026

Shivam Dube’s brutal onslaught resurrects the Indian innings against Netherlands 

The narrative of Indian innings was completely rewritten by Shivam Dube, who produced a savage 66 off just 31 balls to propel India to a massive total. Entering the fray at a point where the scoring rate had dipped following the dismissal of Suryakumar Yadav, Dube unleashed a barrage of six towering maximums that left the Dutch bowlers without answers.

He found a perfect partner in Hardik Pandya, who played a calculated cameo of 30, and together they orchestrated a 76-run partnership that dismantled the Netherlands’ death-overs strategy. Dube was particularly ruthless against Logan van Beek and Roelof van der Merwe, targeting the straight boundaries with brute force and reaching his half-century in just 25 deliveries. Even though he fell on the second ball of the final over while attempting another big hit, the damage was already done, as India had successfully converted a precarious 110/4 into a daunting 193.

His performance stood in stark contrast to the top order’s struggles, where Abhishek Sharma unfortunately equaled the record for most ducks by an Indian in T20 World Cup history after falling for a three-ball zero. The late-inning surge ensured India scored 75 runs in the final five overs. The Netherlands’ response has been a struggle for survival against the world-class Indian attack, as they reached 110/4 after 13.3 overs, still needing a monumental 84 runs from just 38 balls.

Also READ: IND vs NED: Fans express shock as Abhishek Sharma records third consecutive duck in T20 World Cup 2026