The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 continues their exciting journey as the defending champions India to take Namibia in the 18th match of the tournament. Held at the historic Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, this Group A game marks an important juncture for the Men in Blue. After a hard-fought victory in front of him USA In the opening game, India enter this contest as heavy favourites. However, the pre-game hype wasn’t just about the scoreboard; it was aimed at sudden changes in the Indian squad. During the shooting, fans were surprised to see two main names. Abhishek Sharma and Muhammad Sirajdid not take place in the starting 11.
Why are Abhishek Sharma and Mohammed Siraj not playing in today’s match?
The captain revealed the secret of team selection Suryakumar Yadav during the shot. Namibia won the toss and qualified for the trophy, affected by the impending threat of dew. Undeterred, Suryakumar pointed out that India are looking to bat first no matter what. Addressing the big question of missing players, it introduced a mix of medical and tactical updates.
Abhishek Sharma its absence is a significant blow to the top line. The young sensation, who has been exposed in the shortest format, has been ruled out due to a stomach infection. Reports suggest that Abhishek was briefly hospitalized earlier this week after the team arrived in Delhi. He was released from the hospital and while he was recovering, the team management decided not to risk his health.
“Abhishek is still not well; will miss a game or two,” Suryakumar confirmed during the shoot.That opening slot has now been given to him Sanju Samsonwhose explosive batting style mirrors that of Abhishek, ensuring the Powerplay remains aggressive.
On the bowling front, the omission Muhammad Siraj it’s more a matter of staff rotation and the return of a legend. Siraj, who was added to the team at the last minute Harshit Rana‘s injury, he performed well in the first game. However, with jasprit bumrah Recovering from a viral fever that sidelined him, the “Yorker King” has regained his place. Ahead of the high-voltage clash against Pakistan scheduled for February 15, Siraj replaces Bumrah.
The 11th of both teams is playing
India: Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, jasprit bumrah
Namibia: Louren Steenkamp, Jan Frylinck, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Gerhard Erasmus (c), JJ Smith, Malan Kruger, Zane Green (wk), Ruben Trumpelmann, Bernard Scholtz, Ben Shikongo, Max Heingo
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