T20 World Cup 2026: India to Make One Change in Playing XI Against Namibia

NEW DELHI: The Indian cricket team is set to face Namibia in their second match of the T20 World Cup 2026 on February 12 at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. A change in the playing XI is expected, with senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah likely to return after missing the opening game due to viral fever.

India Started the Tournament with a Convincing Win
India began their World Cup campaign with a 29-run victory over the United States. In that match, India faced a mid-innings slump at 77/6, but a masterful 84-run innings from Suryakumar Yadav helped the team reach a competitive total of 161, which proved enough to secure the win.

Playing XI Adjustment Expected
With Bumrah’s return almost certain, India may have to bench either Arshdeep Singh or Mohammed Siraj. Siraj impressed in the opener, taking three wickets, but Arshdeep’s left-arm variation could give India an edge against Namibia.

Spin Department and Bench Players
Kuldeep Yadav did not feature in the first match, as the team opted for extra batting strength by including Rinku Singh. His return against Namibia seems unlikely, as India already has bowling options in Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube. Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma may also bowl if needed.

Sanju Samson Likely to Remain on the Bench
Opening batsmen Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma struggled against the USA, but their spots are secure for now, which means Sanju Samson is expected to remain on the bench for the second game. Overall, the team looks well-balanced, and aside from Bumrah’s inclusion, major changes to the playing XI seem unlikely.

India vs Namibia – Probable Playing XI:
Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh