The T20 World Cup 2026 gets underway today with Pakistan locking horns with the Netherlands in the tournament opener at Colombo’s Sinhalese Sports Club. With 20 teams in action and fans glued to their screens, this first match sets the tone for what promises to be a long, high-voltage cricket carnival.
For Pakistan, it’s not just another group game. There’s pressure, team combinations to sort out, and a few off-field headlines already creating buzz. The Netherlands, meanwhile, come in as the quiet disruptors — a side known for pulling off surprises on big stages.
Here’s everything you need to know — live streaming, telecast details, pitch report, stats and full squads.
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When and where is PAK vs NED being played?
Pakistan and the Netherlands face off at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. The venue hasn’t hosted many T20Is in recent years, which adds a bit of mystery to how the surface will behave.
The match marks the official start of the tournament before other teams like India, West Indies, Scotland and USA take the field later in the day.
How to watch PAK vs NED live on TV and online?
Fans in India can catch the action live on TV through the official sports broadcasters of the tournament.
Live Telecast: Star Sports Network
Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar app and website
Viewers can stream the game on mobile, laptop or smart TV. Subscriptions may be required depending on the plan.
Pakistan enter with selection headaches
Pakistan have been in the spotlight even before the first ball is bowled. The team management has hinted at bold selection calls, including the possibility of dropping senior players if they don’t fit the combination.
Captain Salman Ali Agha kept it straightforward during the pre-match chat, saying the focus will be on “playing the best XI” rather than picking players based on reputation.
That means big names like Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman aren’t automatic picks anymore. It’s a clear message — form and balance matter more than seniority.
To add to the tension, Pakistan will also forfeit points from their group-stage clash against India, making every remaining game crucial for qualification.
Sinhalese Sports Club pitch report: What to expect?
The Colombo pitch is a bit of an unknown.
Only two T20 internationals have been played here — and that was over 16 years ago. So teams don’t have much recent data to rely on.
Still, early signs suggest:
• Batters should enjoy decent bounce and carry
• Pacers may get help with the new ball
• Spinners could come into play later, but not dominate
In short, it looks like a balanced surface. Scores around 160 could be competitive.
Sinhalese Sports Club – T20I numbers
Matches played: 2
Neutral teams won: 2
Wins batting first: 1
Wins batting second: 1
Highest total: 176/3 (Canada vs Ireland, 2010)
Highest chase: 143/5 (Afghanistan vs Canada, 2010)
Average first-innings score: 158
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Netherlands looking to repeat giant-killing acts
The Dutch side might not have star power, but they’ve built a reputation for punching above their weight. Their famous win over South Africa in the 2022 edition is still fresh in memory.
With experienced names like Scott Edwards, Bas de Leede and Logan van Beek, they have enough firepower to trouble bigger teams if Pakistan slip even slightly.
Full squads
Netherlands:
Michael Levitt, Max ODowd, Bas de Leede, Zach Lion Cachet, Colin Ackermann, Scott Edwards (c/wk), Noah Croes, Roelof van der Merwe, Logan van Beek, Aryan Dutt, Kyle Klein, Paul van Meekeren, Timm van der Gugten, Saqib Zulfiqar, Fred Klaassen
Pakistan:
Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Salman Agha (c), Khawaja Nafay (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Sahibzada Farhan, Usman Khan, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq
What’s at stake?
For Pakistan, this is a must-win start. With points already under pressure, any slip-up could hurt their path to the Super stage.
For the Netherlands, it’s a chance to make an early statement and shake up the group.
Either way, expect nerves, energy and a competitive opener — the kind of game that reminds you why World Cups are special.
