Pakistan is the strong favorite to win today’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup opener against Netherlands, holding a 53% win probability edge in this NED vs PAK prediction. The team’s recent form, led by the explosive batting of Babar Azam and the spin mastery of Shadab Khan, positions them well on a Colombo pitch that gradually aids spinners. In this preview, we break down the pitch report, weather conditions, team previews, tactical battles, playing XI insights, and fantasy cricket tips for NED vs PAK, offering a comprehensive guide for fans and fantasy players alike.
Netherlands vs Pakistan Match Details
Match | Netherlands vs Pakistan | 1st Match | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
Date | 07/02/2026 (Saturday) |
Time | BDT 11:30 AM / PKT 10:30 AM / INR 11:00 AM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | Sinhalese Sports Club Ground, Colombo |
Recent performance | Netherlands – W W L L NR |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
Sinhalese Sports Club Ground Pitch Report
Sinhalese Sports Club Ground, Colombo
The SSC pitch report in Colombo is expected to start off as a batter-friendly track, offering true bounce and pace in the initial overs. As the game progresses, spinners can exploit the turn and variable bounce, making middle overs critical for both teams’ spin units. Teams winning the toss may consider chasing, given the predictable nature of runs in the first half but increasing spin threat later. This pitch report suggests balanced tactics will be vital for the NED vs PAK match prediction.
Weather Report
Colombo’s weather report on February 7, 2026, is expected to be hot and humid, with temperatures hovering around 32–34°C. There is a significant threat of rain, which could interrupt play and affect the Duckworth-Lewis calculations. Dew is expected in the evening session, giving an advantage to teams batting second, particularly in controlling spinners. This weather report indicates that timing the innings and bowling under pressure will be crucial in this NED vs PAK preview.
NED vs PAK Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 2 |
NED Won | 0 |
PAK Won | 2 |
Tied | 0 |
No Result | 0 |
First-ever Fixture | June 9, 2009 |
Most-recent Fixture | October 30, 2022 |
Netherlands vs Pakistan Team Preview & Squads
Netherlands
Scott Edwards brings strategic acumen and calmness under pressure, vital for guiding a balanced side. His leadership will be tested against Pakistan’s aggressive pace and spin attack.
Netherlands relies heavily on Michael Levitt and Max O’Dowd for top-order stability and power hitting. Levitt anchors the innings, while O’Dowd is likely to dominate in powerplay and death overs, making him the predicted top run-scorer with most sixes.
Kyle Klein spearheads the pace attack, while Roelof van der Merwe provides crucial spin and lower-order batting depth. Bas de Leede is expected to lead the wicket-taking effort. The bowling unit will need disciplined lines and clever variations to contain Pakistan’s formidable batting lineup.
Netherlands Squads
Netherlands Squads
Scott Edwards, Colin Ackermann, Noah Croes, Bas de Leede, Aryan Dutt, Fred Klaassen, Kyle Klein, Michael Levitt, Zach Lion-Cachet, Max O’Dowd, Saqib Zulfiqar, Logan van Beek, Timm van der Gugten, Roelof van der Merwe, Paul van Meekeren
Pakistan
Salman Agha commands a dynamic bowling attack and flexible batting order, crucial for exploiting NED’s vulnerabilities. His decision-making at the toss and field placements could dictate the match tempo.
Pakistan’s batting revolves around Babar Azam and Saim Ayub, with Babar predicted as the top run-scorer and most six-hitter. The lineup is deep, allowing recovery if early wickets fall. Their ability to rotate strike and capitalize on powerplay will be decisive.
Abrar Ahmed’s spin is pivotal in middle overs, while Shadab Khan provides breakthroughs and lower-order hitting. Mohammad Nawaz adds depth as a reliable all-rounder, offering both containment and batting firepower. Disciplined bowling and tactical field setups will be key to this NED vs PAK match prediction.
Pakistan Squads
Pakistan Squads
Salman Agha, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq
NED vs PAK Prediction
Event | Netherlands | Pakistan |
Toss Winner | – | Pakistan |
Player of the Match | – | Babar Azam |
Top Run Scorer | Max O’Dowd | Babar Azam |
Top Wicket Taker | Bas de Leede | Usman Tariq |
Most Sixes | Max O’Dowd | Babar Azam |
Predicted Score | 180+ | 200+ |
Win Probability | 47% | 53% |
Netherlands vs Pakistan Winning Prediction
Our NED vs PAK prediction confidently favors Pakistan to take the opening clash, with a slightly higher 53% win probability. The decisive factors are Pakistan’s superior batting depth, experience on Colombo pitches, and spinners’ control in middle overs. While Netherlands can post a competitive total thanks to Max O’Dowd and Bas de Leede, Pakistan’s combination of Babar Azam’s consistency and Shadab Khan’s wickets should tilt the match. Who do you think will make the most impact in the powerplay today? Follow JeetBuzz for live updates, stats, tactical analysis, and fantasy cricket tips for this thrilling ICC Men’s T20 World Cup encounter.
FAQ: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 1st Match
Q1: What time does Netherlands vs Pakistan start?
The match starts at 11:00 AM IST.
Q2: Where can I watch the NED vs PAK live streaming?
Click here to watch the Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH).
Q3: Who is the key player to watch in this match?
Babar Azam is the key player, expected to lead Pakistan’s batting and dominate the scoreboard.
Disclaimer: This cricket prediction reflects the author’s personal insights and analysis. We encourage readers to review the points shared and draw their own conclusions.
