India vs Netherlands – T20 World Cup 2026 Match 36 Full Preview & Fantasy Guide
The 36th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will feature India taking on Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This high-profile evening clash promises excitement, strong batting displays, and fantasy cricket opportunities for fans across platforms like Dream11, My11Circle, and MPL.
Match Details
- Match: India vs Netherlands
- Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
- Date: 18 February 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM IST
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Head-to-Head Record
India and Netherlands have met once in T20 World Cup history, with India emerging victorious. The Asian giants hold a 100% win record in previous meetings.
Pitch Report – Narendra Modi Stadium
The Ahmedabad surface traditionally supports batters under lights. The pitch offers consistent bounce, making stroke play easier once batters settle in. However, new-ball bowlers may find assistance early on. Spinners could play a role during middle overs, especially if the pitch slows down.
- Average 1st innings score: 170–180
- Dew factor expected in second innings
- Chasing teams may have advantage
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected in Ahmedabad with temperatures around 22–26°C during match hours. No rain threat predicted.
India Squad Analysis
India boasts a balanced squad combining explosive batting, reliable all-rounders, and world-class pace attack. Suryakumar Yadav leads the side with his innovative strokeplay, while Jasprit Bumrah spearheads the bowling unit.
Key Indian Players
Suryakumar Yadav: Consistent T20 performer with 200+ strike rate in recent outings.
Hardik Pandya: All-round capability makes him fantasy gold.
Jasprit Bumrah: Death-over specialist and wicket-taking option.
Netherlands Squad Analysis
Netherlands rely heavily on experienced players like Bas de Leede and Scott Edwards. Their bowling discipline and fielding standards often help them compete strongly against bigger teams.
Key Netherlands Players
Bas de Leede: Reliable all-rounder.
Max O’Dowd: Aggressive top-order batter.
Paul van Meekeren: Strike bowler capable of breakthroughs.
Probable Playing XI
India
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav
Netherlands
Scott Edwards (C & WK), Max O’Dowd, Bas de Leede, Colin Ackermann, Roelof van der Merwe, Logan van Beek, Paul van Meekeren, Aryan Dutt, Fred Klaassen, Kyle Klein, Saqib Zulfiqar
Fantasy Cricket Tips – Dream11 & Other Platforms
Best Captain Choices
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya
- Jasprit Bumrah
Vice-Captain Options
- Axar Patel
- Bas de Leede
- Arshdeep Singh
Small League Fantasy Team
Wicketkeepers: Sanju Samson, Scott Edwards
Batters: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Max O’Dowd, Ishan Kishan
All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya (VC), Axar Patel, Bas de Leede
Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Paul van Meekeren
Grand League Differential Picks
- Shivam Dube
- Aryan Dutt
- Washington Sundar
- Logan van Beek
Fantasy Strategy
Select top-order batters from India and include at least two death-over bowlers. Consider dew factor when building your team.
Match Prediction
India enter as strong favorites due to squad depth and home advantage. Netherlands will aim for early wickets to stay competitive.
Conclusion
The India vs Netherlands clash promises entertaining cricket and significant fantasy potential. With Ahmedabad conditions favoring aggressive batting, expect high scoring action. Fantasy players should prioritize all-rounders and death-over bowlers for maximum points.
FAQs
Q1: When is the match?
18 February 2026, 7:00 PM IST.
Q2: Where is the venue?
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
Q3: Who is best captain pick?
Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya.
Q4: Is pitch batting friendly?
Yes, especially under lights.
Q5: Who are key bowlers?
Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh.
Q6: Who is Netherlands key all-rounder?
Bas de Leede.