New Delhi: India are expected to make a couple of adjustments for their final Group A fixture against Netherlands national cricket team at the T20 World Cup in Ahmedabad, with qualification for the Super 8 stage already secured. Having progressed comfortably and remaining strong contenders to top the group, the team management could use the contest to test bench strength while maintaining winning momentum.
This will be only the second T20 World Cup meeting between the two sides. Their previous encounter came during the 2022 edition in Sydney, where India claimed a convincing 56 run victory.
There is speculation that key performers such as Ishan Kishan and Kuldeep Yadav may be rested. Kishan has been in outstanding form, following up a fluent 61 against Namibia with a match winning 70 off 40 balls in the high pressure clash against Pakistan. His composed yet aggressive approach has drawn praise from the coaching staff. Kuldeep, who featured against Pakistan, could make way as India consider alternative bowling combinations.
Sanju Samson and Mohammed Siraj are among those likely to come into contention. Samson had opened alongside Kishan earlier in the tournament and showed flashes of intent with a brisk 22 against Namibia. Siraj, who replaced the injured Harshit Rana in the squad, played in the tournament opener against the USA but has since been rotated.
Despite discussions around workload management, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to be rested. The fast bowler delivered decisive breakthroughs against Pakistan, dismantling their chase with crucial wickets. The coaching staff indicated that a final decision would be taken closer to match time, though there is no immediate plan to leave him out.
India are also monitoring Abhishek Sharma’s fitness after a recent illness. While he returned against Pakistan but fell early, the team remains confident in his ability to bounce back.
Even with qualification secured, India have stressed that they will not underestimate the Netherlands, acknowledging that surprises have defined this World Cup campaign.
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