On Wednesday, February 18, Team India secured a 17-run victory against the Netherlands at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, concluding their final group match of the T20 World Cup 2026. After winning the toss, they chose to bat first, scoring 193 runs for the loss of six wickets in their 20 overs. The Netherlands managed to score 176 runs and lost seven wickets. Shivam Dube was a standout performer, scoring 66 runs off 31 balls, while Varun Chakaravarthy took three wickets for 14 runs.
This win allowed India to complete Group A with a perfect record, winning all four matches. They started the tournament with a 29-run win against the USA in Mumbai, followed by a 93-run victory over Namibia in Delhi. Their third match was a 61-run win against Pakistan at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Rinku Singh:
The group stage showcased several players excelling, while others struggled. This article highlights three Indian cricketers who have not met expectations during the T20 World Cup 2026.
Rinku Singh was included in the 15-member squad as a reliable finisher instead of Shubman Gill. However, he has faced challenges in the tournament, scoring only 24 runs from 27 balls at an 88 strike rate, with one four and two sixes.
In his first two matches, he had chances to make an impact, but he scored just six runs against the USA and one run against Namibia before getting caught in the deep.
Tilak Varma:
Tilak Varma missed the New Zealand home series due to surgery, raising concerns about his readiness for the T20 World Cup. Unfortunately, he has not performed well, scoring some runs but lacking confidence.
The 23-year-old has a total of 106 runs in four matches with an average of 26.50 and a strike rate of 120.45, with a highest score of 31. His position as India’s No. 3 batter brings added pressure, leading some to suggest Suryakumar Yadav should take his place.
Dube expressed support for Varma after the Netherlands match. Sanjay Bangar, former India batting coach, noted that Varma’s batting style may be affecting his performance. His play will be closely watched in the Super 8 stage.
Abhishek Sharma:
Unexpectedly, Abhishek Sharma has yet to score runs after the group stage matches. Many experts had predicted he would be a top run-scorer before the tournament started.
In three matches, he has faced three dismissals without any runs. His manner of getting out is concerning; he was caught on his first ball against the USA and misplayed deliveries against Pakistan and the Netherlands.
Despite the scrutiny, his aggressive playing style has led to past successes. The Super 8 matches are crucial, and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar recommended that he focus on settling in before attacking. Abhishek needs to enhance his game by developing better waiting techniques.
