India vs Pakistan: Arshdeep Singh Out, Kuldeep Yadav Returns to XI.

Ahead of the 27th match of the T20 World Cup 2026, the Indian cricket team is reportedly preparing for major structural changes in its playing eleven for the much-anticipated encounter against Pakistan. The match, scheduled to take place in Colombo, has prompted the team management to reconsider its bowling combination based on the local pitch conditions. The most significant development is the likely exclusion of left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, with the team opting for the tactical inclusion of chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav, while this move reflects India's strategy to prioritize spin on a surface known for assisting slow bowlers.

Strategic Decision to Bench Arshdeep Singh

According to reports from journalists covering the tournament in Colombo, the decision to bench Arshdeep Singh is purely tactical, while while Arshdeep has been a consistent performer for the national side, the R. Premadasa Stadium's pitch characteristics have forced a rethink. The surface is expected to offer significant grip and turn, making a third specialist spinner more valuable than a third seamer. Team officials have indicated that the management wants to maximize the pressure in the middle overs, where spin historically plays a decisive role in Colombo. Consequently, Arshdeep is expected to make way for a more spin-heavy attack featuring Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakravarthy.

Kuldeep Yadav's Dominant Record Against Pakistan

The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav is backed by his exceptional historical performance against the Pakistani batting lineup. Statistical data shows that Kuldeep has claimed 23 wickets in 9 matches against Pakistan across formats. His ability to deceive batsmen with his variations has frequently troubled top-order players like Babar Azam. Kuldeep has previously recorded figures of five and four wickets in a single match against the arch-rivals, establishing a psychological edge. Given the slow nature of the Colombo track, his presence is seen as a vital asset for breaking partnerships during the middle phase of the innings, while his return to the XI is expected to provide the variety needed to exploit the technical vulnerabilities of the opposition.

Abhishek Sharma's Return and Batting Order Adjustments

In addition to the bowling changes, the Indian batting lineup is set for a boost with the return of Abhishek Sharma, while the young opener missed the previous match due to illness but has now been declared fit by the medical team. Sources suggest that Abhishek Sharma will replace Sanju Samson in the starting eleven. Abhishek's inclusion provides a left-handed option at the top of the order, which is crucial for maintaining a right-left combination alongside Ishan Kishan. This change is expected to provide more flexibility and aggression during the powerplay overs. Samson, who filled in during the last game, is likely to return to the bench as the team reverts to its preferred opening pair.

Pitch Report from R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo

The R. Premadasa Stadium is renowned for its spin-friendly environment. Historically, the pitch here tends to slow down as the game progresses, making it difficult for batsmen to play expansive shots against the turning ball, while while Pakistan has not played at this specific venue recently, their spinners showed promise at the Singhli Sports Club in their previous outing. Usman Tariq took 3 wickets for 27 runs in 4 overs, while Shadab Khan also contributed with 2 wickets. These performances have reinforced the belief that spin will be the primary weapon for both sides. India's decision to adapt their lineup specifically for this venue highlights the importance of ground-specific tactics in this tournament.

India's Probable Playing Eleven and Team Balance

The probable playing eleven for India against Pakistan features a balanced mix of youth and experience, while the lineup is expected to include Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Varun Chakravarthy. The final spot in the eleven remains a subject of discussion, with the management weighing the options between a second specialist pacer like Mohammed Siraj or an additional spin-bowling all-rounder. Jasprit Bumrah will lead the pace attack, while the spin department will be spearheaded by the duo of Kuldeep and Varun. This composition aims to provide depth in both batting and bowling departments for the high-pressure clash.