India delivered a dominant performance against arch-rivals Pakistan, cruising to a 61-run victory in their high-voltage Group A clash at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo. The comprehensive win not only boosted team morale but also confirmed India’s place in the Super Eight stage of the tournament.

Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India posted a strong total of 175 for 7 after being powered by a blazing knock from Ishan Kishan, who smashed 77 runs at the top. His aggressive approach gave the defending champions early momentum and set the platform for a challenging score. The bowlers then backed it up brilliantly, dismantling Pakistan’s batting line-up and bowling them out for just 114 in 18 overs.

The result once again highlighted India’s dominance over Pakistan in World Cup encounters. Sunday’s loss continued Pakistan’s frustrating run against their neighbours on the global stage, where wins have been hard to come by.

With this triumph, India have now won eight of their nine meetings against Pakistan in T20 World Cups. Their superiority is even more pronounced in the 50-over format, having emerged victorious in all eight of their ODI World Cup clashes. The latest result further strengthens India’s remarkable record in one of cricket’s most intense rivalries.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Ishan Kishan joins Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir’s elite list after explosive 77 vs Pakistan

Bollywood stars hail India’s dominant win over Pakistan

Actress Janhvi Kapoor wrote, “Proud moment for every Indian. #INDvsPAK.”

“This brilliant team makes winning look like a cakewalk. Kya khela hai,” tweeted Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn.

This brilliant team makes winning look like a cakewalk
Kya khela hai! 🙌🇮🇳#IndVsPak #T20WorldCup2026

— Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn) February 15, 2026

Actor Riteish Deshmukh wrote, “Jaya Jaya Jaya …. Jai Hey !!!! “

“Aath Ek! The most anticipated match of the tournament was ironically the most one-sided one,” Ayushmann Khurrana captioned his post.

Aath Ek! The most anticipated match of the tournament was ironically the most one sided one. #INDvsPAK #worldcup

— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) February 15, 2026

“Ye mauka bhi..….gaya. Absolute mammoth 77 off 40 balls by Ishan Kishan and kickass early wickets by @Jaspritbumrah93 and @hardikpandya7. My ears are ringing from my own screaming throughout the match! More and more power to our men in Blue! #IndvsPak,” tweeted Vivek Oberoi.

Anil Kapoor wrote, “And that’s how it’s done. Super proud, BCCI.”

And that’s how it’s done🇮🇳👊🏻🙌🏻
Super proud @BCCI pic.twitter.com/ko1BSwVCEY

— Anil Kapoor (@AnilKapoor) February 15, 2026

Veteran actor Anupam Kher shared a video as the match was coming to its end. After India’s win, Anupam burst into loud laughter and joyfully chanted the Lord Shiva’s name.

हर हर महादेव! जय भोलेनाथ।😍🕉🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳 #INDvsPAK pic.twitter.com/L7AQd8QnCG

— Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) February 15, 2026

Paresh Rawal posted succinctly on X (formerly Twitter), “WHAT RIVALRY !” followed by laughing emojis.

WHAT RIVALRY !🤣!🤣

— Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) February 15, 2026

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Fans celebrate Ishan Kishan’s heroics as India hammer Pakistan to secure Super 8 spot

Pakistan’s crushing 61-run defeat to India in Colombo on Sunday has sparked fierce criticism back home, with former spinner launching a pointed attack following yet another one-sided chapter in the historic rivalry. The loss not only dented Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign but also reignited debates over the team’s repeated failures against their arch-rivals on the global stage.

The contest at the R Premadasa Stadium saw India dominate comprehensively, leaving Pakistan’s Super 8 hopes hanging by a thread. As frustration grew among supporters, the ex-Pakistan star took to social media with cutting remarks that quickly gained traction.

Ex-spinner mocks Pakistan after India crush Men in Green at T20 World Cup 2026

Just minutes before the high-voltage clash began, a Pakistani social media account announced that the match would be screened publicly across all tehsils of Dera Ghazi Khan in southwestern Punjab. The post was intended to reflect the nationwide excitement surrounding the marquee encounter.

Kaneria, however, responded with biting sarcasm. He suggested that the public screenings merely ensured fans could witness the reality in high definition, a remark widely interpreted as a dig at Pakistan’s underwhelming performance.

It really helped everyone witness the reality in high definition. https://t.co/N0mzBkpAvE

— Danish Kaneria (@DanishKaneria61) February 15, 2026

The former leg-spinner went a step further, claiming that Pakistan’s earlier rhetoric about boycotting the India fixture might have been less humiliating than the manner in which the game unfolded. His comments underscored the embarrassment many felt after the heavy defeat.

“Honestly, a boycott might have been less embarrassing. #INDvsPAK,” Kaneria wrote on X.

Honestly, a boycott might have been less embarrassing. #INDvsPAK

— Danish Kaneria (@DanishKaneria61) February 15, 2026

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav lose cool at Kuldeep Yadav during IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 showdown

Ishan Kishan powers India to massive total before bowlers thrash Pakistan

On the field, India seized control early, thanks to a blistering knock from Ishan Kishan. The left-handed opener hammered 77 off just 40 balls, attacking Pakistan’s bowling with confidence and precision. His explosive innings laid the foundation for India’s strong total of 175. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to find consistency, conceding crucial boundaries at key moments. Despite brief attempts to pull things back, they failed to halt India’s momentum as partnerships flourished.

Chasing 176, Pakistan never looked settled. The Indian bowling unit applied relentless pressure, tightening the screws with disciplined lines and clever variations. Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel claimed two wickets each, dismantling Pakistan’s batting line-up. Eventually, Pakistan were bundled out for just 114, handing India a comprehensive 61-run victory.

The result further extended India’s dominance in T20 World Cup encounters between the two sides, with the head-to-head record now standing at an emphatic 8-1.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Fans celebrate Ishan Kishan’s heroics as India hammer Pakistan to secure Super 8 spot

The stage is set at the Diamond Oval in Kimberley for the third and final T20I of the series. With the hosts already holding an unassailable 2-0 lead, this match is a quest for a clean sweep for South Africa, while Pakistan fights to salvage pride and find momentum before the ODI leg of the tour begins.

The South African lineup is currently anchored by the sublime form of their skipper, Laura Wolvaardt, who has already amassed 101 runs across the first two matches of the series. Her ability to stabilize the innings while maintaining an aggressive strike rate of approximately 150 makes her the most prized wicket for the opposition. Complementing this batting strength is the lethal precision of Ayabonga Khaka, who enters this match fresh off a Player of the Match performance in the second T20I where she claimed figures of 3/10 with clinical death-over execution. Adding to their depth is the young all-rounder Kayla Reyneke, who has emerged as a true revelation for the Proteas by providing vital middle-order cameos and picking up crucial wickets at turning points in the game.

Pakistan’s hopes for a comeback rest heavily on the shoulders of their captain, Fatima Sana, who has been carrying the weight of the team as a premier dual-threat. Her explosive 90-run knock in the series opener proved she has the power to dismantle any bowling attack, though she remains in desperate need of more consistent support from her teammates. Setting the tone at the top of the order is wicket-keeper batter Muneeba Ali, whose role is essential for ensuring Pakistan maintains early momentum without losing quick wickets. On the bowling front, the visitors will rely on the clever left-arm spin of Sadia Iqbal, who remains their most consistent threat and is expected to thrive on a surface that may offer extra grip under the lights.

SA-W vs PAK-W, 3rd T20I: Match Details

• Date and Time: February 16; 9:30 pm IST / 4:00 pm GMT / 6:00 pm local
• Venue: Diamond Oval, Kimberley

Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)

Matches played: 26 | South Africa Women won: 15 | Pakistan Women won: 11

Diamond Oval Pitch Report

The pitch at the Diamond Oval in Kimberley is traditionally a sporting surface that offers a fair contest between bat and ball. Known for its generous carry and early bounce, the wicket typically favours pace bowlers who can exploit the new ball. However, once the initial shine wears off, the surface tends to settle, allowing batters to play their shots with confidence on a consistent line. With an average first-innings score of approximately 131–150 in T20Is, it is a competitive venue rather than a high-scoring paradise. Under the evening lights, a touch of dew may also assist the chasing side.

Also READ: Ayabonga Khaka, Laura Wolvaardt power South Africa to dominant T20I series triumph over Pakistan

Squads:

South Africa Women: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Kayla Reyneke, Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, Annerie Dercksen, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Dane van Niekerk, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayanda Hlubi, Karabo Meso

Pakistan Women: Sidra Amin, Ayesha Zafar, Muneeba Ali (wk), Aliya Riaz, Eyman Fatima, Natalia Pervaiz, Fatima Sana (c), Nashra Sandhu, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Tuba Hassan, Gull Feroza, Tasmia Rubab, Humna Bilal, Saira Jabeen

SA-W vs PAK-W, 3rd T20I: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• South Africa wins the toss and bowl first
• Pakistan powerplay score: 30-40
• Pakistan total score: 140-150

Case 2:

• Pakistan wins the toss and bowl first
• South Africa powerplay score: 50-60
• South Africa total score: 170-180

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: Fatima Sana’s brilliant 90 goes in vain as South Africa edge Pakistan in a thrilling first T20I

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

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy for a heavyweight Group B showdown. On February 16, 2026, co-hosts Sri Lanka will face off against Australia in Match 30 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. With the atmospheric Kandy hills providing the backdrop, this fixture has evolved from a simple group game into a battle for survival and supremacy, as both sides eye a coveted spot in the Super 8 stage.

Steve Smith bolsters Australia squad following Josh Hazlewood’s exit from T20 World Cup 2026

The Australian camp has been forced into a late tactical pivot following the official withdrawal of premier pacer Josh Hazlewood. The veteran right-armer, a cornerstone of Australia’s pace battery, has been ruled out of the remainder of the 2026 T20 World Cup due to a persistent calf strain. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff to nurse him back for the knockout rounds, Hazlewood failed to meet the necessary fitness benchmarks.

In a move that signals a shift in strategy, the Event Technical Committee of the ICC has approved the inclusion of Steve Smith as his replacement. While Smith was initially a travelling reserve providing cover for the injured Mitchell Marsh, he now finds himself officially back in the 15-man squad.

“The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has approved Steve Smith as a replacement for Josh Hazlewood in the Australia squad. Smith is named as a replacement for Hazlewood, who is now officially ruled out from participating in the tournament due to a calf injury,” the ICC confirmed in a media release.

Smith’s return comes at a fascinating time. Having not featured in a T20I for nearly two years before this call-up, his sensational form in the recent Big Bash League, where he boasted a strike rate of nearly 168, suggests he is more than ready for the subcontinental grind. His experience against spin will be vital on a slowing Pallekele surface.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Fans celebrate Ishan Kishan’s heroics as India hammer Pakistan to secure Super 8 spot

A crucial must-win fixture for Australia’s Super 8 ambitions

For the Lions, the equation is clear: victory tonight guarantees them a place in the Super 8. Currently sitting at the top of Group B with two wins from two matches, Sri Lanka have been the form team of the group. Their massive 105-run win over Oman has given them a healthy Net Run Rate (NRR) of +3.125, making them the team to beat on home soil.

However, the pressure is arguably higher on Australia. Following a shock 23-run defeat to Zimbabwe, the 2021 champions are currently third in the table. A loss to Sri Lanka would leave their qualification hopes hanging by a thread, likely requiring other results to go their way and a massive win against Oman in their final fixture.

The Pallekele pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest, but as the lights take effect, the surface typically slows down, aiding Sri Lanka’s formidable spin of Maheesh Theekshana. Australia will look to Smith and a returning Marsh to navigate these tricky middle overs. With the local Kandy crowd expected to turn out in droves, Sri Lanka holds the psychological edge.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan joins Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir’s elite list after explosive 77 vs Pakistan

Pakistan‘s crushing 61-run defeat to India in the T20 World Cup 2026 group-stage clash at the R Premadasa Stadium has ignited fierce criticism from former fast-bowling great Shoaib Akhtar, who launched a blistering attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and its leadership.

Speaking in the aftermath of the high-voltage encounter, Akhtar did not mince words as he questioned the direction of Pakistan cricket and the decision-making at the top. His remarks, widely circulated across television and digital platforms, have added fuel to an already raging debate about accountability within the board and the team.

Shoaib Akhtar questions PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s leadership

Without directly naming him at first, Akhtar’s criticism was clearly aimed at PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The former pacer expressed serious doubts over whether the board’s current leadership possesses the vision and competence required to steer Pakistan cricket through turbulent times.

He argued that appointing individuals without adequate cricketing understanding to crucial administrative roles can have damaging consequences. According to Akhtar, leadership at the top plays a defining role in shaping team culture, performance standards and long-term planning.

In a strongly worded statement, Akhtar suggested that giving major responsibilities to those lacking the necessary expertise inevitably leads to organizational decline. His remarks were not limited to a single defeat but reflected broader concerns about systemic issues within Pakistan cricket.

“Now one guy doesn’t even know he’s the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. How will the team run now? You’re saying one guy, you’ve made him a superstar, he can’t win a single match. You’ve made him a star who can’t win a single living match. Brother, when you make these kinds of stars, when you choose them, when you pick them, then you’ll have this problem only. But again, the point is, if you see, you know what the biggest crime in the world is? The biggest crime in the world is that you give a big job to an incompetent person,” said Akhtar on ABP News.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Fans celebrate Ishan Kishan’s heroics as India hammer Pakistan to secure Super 8 spot

Senior players under fire

Akhtar also turned his attention to Pakistan’s senior cricketers, questioning the continued faith placed in experienced names who failed to rise to the occasion. He pointed out that repeated underwhelming performances in marquee matches cannot be overlooked indefinitely.

Against India, key figures such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan struggled to make an impact. Their inability to deliver in one of the tournament’s most anticipated clashes has intensified scrutiny on team selection and leadership dynamics. Akhtar appeared particularly frustrated with what he described as the creation of “untouchable stars.” He warned that elevating players beyond accountability can foster complacency and weaken competitive spirit within the squad.

“When you give a big job to an incompetent and ignorant person, he will destroy the country. He will bring down any organization. The example is in front of you, you’re intelligent enough to understand,” Akhtar concluded.

India dominate once again

The defeat further extended Pakistan’s recent struggles against India in global tournaments. In front of a packed Colombo crowd, India outclassed their rivals in all departments — from disciplined bowling to calculated batting under pressure. Pakistan’s batting faltered during the chase, while their bowling unit failed to contain India’s aggressive top order. The one-sided nature of the contest left fans disappointed and intensified calls for structural reforms.

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav lose cool at Kuldeep Yadav during IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 showdown

In a high-octane clash that lived up to its billing, India extended their psychological edge over arch-rivals Pakistan with a commanding 61-run victory at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. This Match 27 of Group A, held on February 15, 2026, was more than just a win; it was a statement of intent as the Men in Blue officially secured their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, despite the celebratory atmosphere in the stands, the final moments on the field were marked by uncharacteristic tension between some of India’s senior players.

Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav rebuke Kuldeep Yadav

While the scorecard reflected a clinical performance, an unexpected visual emerged after Hardik Pandya scalped the final wicket to bowl out Pakistan for 114. As the Indian contingent gathered to celebrate their entry into the next round, the cameras caught Hardik looking visibly miffed. Instead of a standard high-five, he was seen reprimanding spinner Kuldeep Yadav. The intensity didn’t stop there; captain Suryakumar Yadav also approached Kuldeep, seemingly expressing his displeasure in a stern manner.

The friction reportedly stemmed from a lapse in the 18th over. Shaheen Afridi had launched a short delivery from Hardik toward the long-on boundary. Kuldeep, stationed right at the edge, appeared to have settled under the ball, but the catch fumbled through his fingers and over the ropes for a six.

The frustration shown by the leadership group highlights the high standards set for this World Cup campaign. Even as Rinku Singh stepped in to play the peacemaker and Tilak Varma looked on with concern, the message was clear: in a tournament of this magnitude, even a harmless dropped catch can be the difference between a trophy and a heartbreak.

Here’s the video:

Here is video of Hardik Pandya & Surya Kumar Yadav angry on Kuldeep Yadav #INDvsPAK #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/BsGCCprKNc

— cricketkayudh (@cricketkayudh) February 15, 2026

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Fans celebrate Ishan Kishan’s heroics as India hammer Pakistan to secure Super 8 spot

India’s dominant win against Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026

Despite the post-match drama, India’s performance was nothing short of a masterclass. After being put in to bat on a sluggish Colombo track, India lost Abhishek Sharma early for a duck. However, Ishan Kishan turned the tide with a blistering 77 off just 40 balls, dismantling the Pakistani pace attack and setting the foundation for a total of 175/7. Contributions from Suryakumar (32) and Shivam Dube (27) ensured India stayed well above the par score.

Pakistan’s chase never found its rhythm. Pandya set the tone by taking a wicket in his very first over, removing Sahibzada Farhan. The Indian bowling unit operated like a well-oiled machine. Pakistan was eventually bundled out for 114 in 18 overs, marking India’s 8th win in 9 T20 World Cup meetings against their neighbors. With three wins in three games, India moves to the top of Group A, while Pakistan now face a must-win scenario against Namibia to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya’s early blow rocks Pakistan as Sahibzada Farhan falls for duck during IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 clash

New Zealand have announced a new all-format captain for their women’s side, with a fresh chapter beginning after Sophie Devine stepped down from the role following the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 in October. The decision signals a new era for the White Ferns as they prepare for a packed international calendar over the next three years.

New Zealand Cricket names a new leader of Women’s side

New Zealand Cricket has entrusted the captaincy to Amelia Kerr, naming the young star as the full-time leader of both the ODI and T20I teams. Kerr takes over from Devine, who led the side through a significant phase, including the recent global tournament.

Having already captained New Zealand in two ODIs and two T20Is, Kerr is no stranger to leadership responsibilities. However, this marks her first long-term stint at the helm. Her appointment comes at a crucial time, with New Zealand set to defend their T20 World Cup crown in England later this year, followed by the ICC T20 Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka in 2027 and a historic Olympic appearance in Los Angeles in 2028, alongside another T20 World Cup.

Head coach Ben Sawyer backed the decision, highlighting Kerr’s deep understanding of what it means to represent New Zealand. He emphasized her influence both on and off the field, noting the respect she commands within the dressing room and her leadership experience with the Wellington Blaze over the past three seasons. According to Sawyer, the move reflects a long-term vision aimed at ensuring stability and continuity through to 2029.

“She’s an outstanding leader not only through her performances on the field, but also in the respect she has from the playing group off it. She has a sound understanding of the game and has strong leadership experience from the games she has captained the White Ferns and her time leading the Wellington Blaze over the past three years. Melie leading this team at this stage of her career ensures we have continuity and stability through the next cycle to 2029,” Sawyer was quoted as saying in a New Zealand Cricket release.

Impressive records and a fine player

Kerr’s elevation is built on a remarkable cricketing résumé. Since making her international debut in 2016 at just 16 years of age, she has grown into one of the most dependable all-rounders in world cricket. Across formats, she has scored 3,757 runs and claimed 201 wickets — numbers that place her among New Zealand’s elite performers. She currently ranks as the country’s third-highest wicket-taker and fifth-highest run-scorer in women’s internationals.

Her influence was particularly evident during New Zealand’s triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, where she played a starring role and was named Player of the Tournament. That golden run was followed by another milestone when she became the first New Zealander to win the prestigious Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Trophy as the ICC Women’s Player of the Year — a recognition of her consistency, composure and match-winning ability.

Also READ: Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026: Date, Match Time, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

Star cricketer reacts after becoming all-format White Ferns captain

Speaking after the announcement, Kerr described the appointment as a ‘massive privilege’ and a dream come true. Representing New Zealand has always been close to her heart, and leading the side, she said, adds a special layer of responsibility.

Kerr made it clear that her leadership style will be rooted in a people-first philosophy. Drawing from a favourite Māori proverb — “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” — she stressed that people are at the centre of everything. For her, success will come from nurturing belief, celebrating teammates’ achievements and fostering a culture of unity.

“Growing up it was my childhood dream to represent New Zealand and to now have the opportunity to captain my country is a massive privilege. I am following an exceptional group of leaders who have captained the White Ferns before me, so I don’t take the responsibility lightly. I have so much love for this group and so much passion for representing Aotearoa. The captaincy doesn’t change who I am, I am still the same person and will give everything I can to lead this group and hopefully bring our country success,” said Kerr.

Also READ: Amelia Kerr reigns supremacy with historic sweep at the New Zealand Cricket Awards 2025

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

The 2021 champions, Australia, face off against the co-hosts, Sri Lanka, in a pivotal Group B clash at T20 World Cup 2026. While Sri Lanka have cruised through their opening fixtures, Australia find themselves in unfamiliar territory—fighting for survival after a shock defeat to Zimbabwe.

The narrative of this match is a tale of two very different momentums. Sri Lanka enter this contest as the form team of the group. Under the lights in Pallekele, their top order, led by the consistent Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka, has looked imperious. Their bowling attack has also adapted perfectly to home conditions, with Maheesh Theekshana proving to be a nightmare for batters in the powerplay.

​Australia, conversely, is a team under siege. Marred by injuries to key personnel like Mitchell Marsh (groin), they have struggled to find a rhythm. A loss here wouldn’t mathematically end their journey, but it would leave them at the mercy of other results. The spotlight will be on Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell to provide the explosive starts they are known for, while the possible return of Marsh could provide the leadership spark they desperately need.

AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details

• Date and Time: February 16; 07:00 pm IST / 1:30 am GMT
• Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

AUS vs SL, Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)

Matches played: 26 | Australia won: 15 | Sri Lanka won: 10 | Tied/No result: 1

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The surface is expected to be firm and dry initially, offering good carry. Batters can capitalize on the new ball, as seen in Sri Lanka’s massive total against Oman earlier this month. As the match progresses, the pitch tends to grip. Spinners and pacers with deceptive “pace-off” deliveries (like Matheesha Pathirana) will become significantly more dangerous in the second half of each innings. Statistically, teams batting first have a slight advantage here and chasing becomes a sticky affair as the ball gets older and the surface slows down.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Fans celebrate Ishan Kishan’s heroics as India hammer Pakistan to secure Super 8 spot

Squads

Australia: Josh Inglis (wk), Travis Head (c), Cameron Green, Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Marsh, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly

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

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

Case 1:

• Australia wins the toss and bats first
• Australia powerplay score: 40-50
• Australia total score: 150-160

Case 2:

• Sri Lanka wins the toss and bats first
• Sri Lanka powerplay score: 45-55
• Sri Lanka total score: 165-175

Match result: Team batting first to win the contest.

Also READ: ‘Sanju Samson should have played’: Fans troll Abhishek Sharma after he falls for a 4-ball duck during IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 clash

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Group C action remains at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata for a fascinating encounter between England and tournament debutants Italy. England, the two-time champions, enter this match following a vital five-wicket victory over Scotland that kept their Super 8 hopes alive. Italy, meanwhile, is riding the highest wave in their cricketing history after securing a stunning 10-wicket victory over Nepal, their first-ever win in a World Cup. While on paper this looks like a mismatch, the ‘Azzurri’ have shown they have the spirit to challenge the established order.

ENG vs ITA, T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details

• Date and Time: February 16 (Monday); 3:00 pm IST / 9:30 am GMT
• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

ENG vs ITA, Head-to-Head Record

Matches played: 0 (This is their first international meeting).

Eden Gardens Pitch Report

Eden Gardens has lived up to its reputation as a high-scoring venue this tournament, but it has offered a balanced battle. The surface generally provides good pace and carry for the fast bowlers early on, but the abrasive nature of the pitch means spinners like Adil Rashid and Italy’s Crishan Kalugamage will find purchase in the middle overs. The average score at this venue in the 2026 World Cup has been around 170. Since this is an afternoon game, the dew factor will be negligible, making the pitch likely to slow down slightly in the second innings. The captain winning the toss will probably elect to bat first to set a tall target on a fresh surface.

Team dynamics and key players

England: Harry Brook’s side has been somewhat inconsistent but showed grit in their chase against Scotland. Tom Banton (63* vs Scotland) has been the anchor, while Phil Salt and Jos Buttler remain the most explosive opening pair in the group. Their bowling is their biggest asset; Jofra Archer has regained his express pace, and Adil Rashid remains a master of subcontinental conditions. England needs a dominant win here to boost their Net Run Rate and secure a top-two spot in Group C.

Italy: The Italian squad is a mix of professional experience and inspired local talent—famously highlighted by Crishan Kalugamage, a pizza chef by trade who took 3/18 to dismantle Nepal. Captain Harry Manenti leads a resilient side bolstered by the experience of JJ Smuts and Grant Stewart. After their clinical 10-wicket chase, Italy will look to their openers Justin Mosca and Anthony Mosca to brave the initial burst from the English pacers. Their goal will be to take the game deep and capitalize on any nerves in the England camp.

Squads

England: Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood

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

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan joins Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir’s elite list after explosive 77 vs Pakistan

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

Case 1:

• England wins the toss and bats first
• England powerplay score: 55-65 (6 overs)
• England total score: 195-205

Case 2:

• Italy wins the toss and bats first
• Italy powerplay score: 35-45 (6 overs)
• Italy total score: 130-140

Match result: England to win the contest.

Also READ: ‘Sanju Samson should have played’: Fans troll Abhishek Sharma after he falls for a 4-ball duck during IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 clash

The lights of the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi are set to host a high-stakes encounter in Group D of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. On one side, we have an Afghanistan team, wounded, desperate, and searching for their first points of the tournament. On the other, a resilient UAE squad looking to build on the momentum of their historic win over Canada and mount a serious challenge for the Super Eight.

Two years ago, Afghanistan were the darlings of the T20 world after their semi-final run. In 2026, the script has been far harsher. After a clinical defeat to New Zealand, they played what many are calling the “Match of the Century” against South Africa, a double super over thriller that ultimately saw them fall short. Rashid Khan’s men are currently winless and must win every remaining game to keep their slim qualification hopes alive.

UAE are riding high. After a reality-check loss to the Black Caps in their opener, they pulled off a stunning chase against Canada. Aryansh Sharma (74) and Sohaib Khan (51) proved that the UAE batting lineup has the depth to handle pressure. A win here would propel them into a genuine conversation for the next round.

AFG vs UAE, T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details

• Date and Time: February 16 (Monday); 11:00 am IST / 5:30 am GMT
• Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

AFG vs UAE, Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)

Matches played: 15 | Afghanistan won: 12 | UAE won: 3

Arun Jaitley Stadium Pitch Report

The Arun Jaitley Stadium pitch for this encounter is expected to be a traditional Delhi slow-burner, offering significant grip and turn as the match progresses. While the surface is relatively flat and allows for shot-making during the Powerplay, it tends to stay low, making life difficult for batters once the ball loses its shine. Spinners from both sides will likely dominate the middle overs, as evidenced by recent tournament trends where spin has accounted for a record percentage of wickets. With this being a morning game, the dew factor—which often aids chasers under lights—will be non-existent, making a score around 155–165 highly competitive.

Squads

Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Sediqullah Atal, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Naveen Ul Haq, Mohammad Ishaq, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Darwish Rasooli, Ibrahim Zadran

UAE: Muhammad Waseem (captain), Alishan Sharafu, Aryansh Sharma, Dhruv Parashar, Haider Ali, Harshit Kaushik, Junaid Siddique, Mayank Kumar, Muhammad Arfan, Muhammad Farooq, Muhammad Jawadullah, Muhammad Zohaib, Rohid Khan, Sohaib Khan, Simranjeet Singh.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Fans celebrate Ishan Kishan’s heroics as India hammer Pakistan to secure Super 8 spot

AFG vs UAE, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Afghanistan wins the toss and bats first
• Afghanistan powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
• Afghanistan total score: 175-185

Case 2:

• UAE wins the toss and bats first
• UAE powerplay score: 38-48 (6 overs)
• UAE total score: 135-145

Match result: Afghanistan to win the contest.

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