Indian team management led by captain Suryakumar Yadav and head coach Gautam Gambhir is finalizing a new-look top order for the match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. With Abhishek Sharma doubtful as he recovers from a viral fever and stomach bug, the spotlight has shifted back to a familiar face in the Indian dugout.
The Direct Replacement: Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson is the most likely candidate to take the opening slot. Samson, benched for the tournament opener against the USA in favor of Ishan Kishan, is the frontrunner to return to the XI.
- The Role: Samson is expected to open the innings, allowing the middle order of Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav to remain stable.
- Pressure to Perform: Samson has faced criticism for his consistency in T20Is, but his experience on the Delhi track—which has shown significant turn this tournament will be vital.
Bowling Boost: The Return of the 'Boom'
A major relief for the Indian camp, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has fully recovered from the viral fever that kept him out of the first game. He was seen bowling at "full tilt" in the nets on Tuesday.
Who makes way?
Bumrah’s return creates a selection headache. While Mohammed Siraj was excellent against the USA (picking up 3 wickets), he might have to make way if the team sticks with Arshdeep Singh’s left-arm variety, or India might opt to bench a spinner if the track doesn't look like a "rank turner."
India’s Probable Playing 11 vs Namibia
- Ishan Kishan (wk)
- Sanju Samson
- Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav (c)
- Hardik Pandya
- Shivam Dube
- Rinku Singh
- Axar Patel
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Arshdeep Singh / Mohammed Siraj
- Varun Chakravarthy
Match Details
- Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
- Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi
- Date & Time: Thursday, February 12 | 5:30 PM IST
