Pakistan will face the Netherlands in the opening clash of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, marking the start of cricket's biggest T20 spectacle. Pakistan enter the tournament with strong momentum after a 3-0 series sweep over Australia and will be led by Salman Ali Agha.
With a well-balanced squad, especially a strong spin attack, and all their matches scheduled in Sri Lanka, Pakistan will look to make the most of favourable conditions.
The Netherlands, however, have a reputation for challenging top sides in ICC tournaments. Under Scott Edwards' leadership, the team will rely on its experienced players and aim to deliver a competitive performance in the tournament opener.
PAK vs NED Team News
Pakistan may consider bringing Sahibzada Farhan back after leaving him out of
their last match. With the pitch expected to assist spinners, the team is likely to rely more on slow bowlers and could opt to play only two pacers. Despite ongoing discussions around Babar Azam's form, the team management is expected to continue backing him in the playing XI.
For the Netherlands, Michael Levitt is emerging as a key player despite a modest showing in the 2024 T20 World Cup. The 22-year-old has quickly built a strong reputation, becoming one of the leading run-scorers for his side while maintaining an impressive strike rate.
He made headlines with consistent performances in tri-series tournaments involving Canada, USA, and Scotland, where he produced a remarkable run tally. Though he has had limited opportunities in recent senior matches, Levitt's aggressive batting style makes him a dangerous prospect in a global tournament.
Pakistan vs Netherlands Predicted Playing 11
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha (capt), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman/Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed.
Netherlands: Michael Levitt, Max ODowd, Bas de Leede, Zach Lion Cachet, Colin Ackermann, Scott Edwards(w/c), 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 vs Netherlands Live Streaming: Where to Watch T20 World Cup 2026 Match on TV and Online?
India
The Pakistan vs Netherlands match will be telecast on the Star Sports Network from 11 am IST on Saturday (Feb 7). The match will be live-streamed on JioHotstar app and website.
Pakistan
The Pakistan vs Netherlands T20 World Cup match will be telecast on PTV Sports from 10:30 am Pakistan time, while the live streaming will be available on Tamasha, ARY Zapp, Myco digital platforms.
Bangladesh
The Pakistan vs Netherlands T20 World Cup match will be telecast on T Sports and Nagorik TV from 11:30 am local time. The match can be live-streamed on Toffee and Rabbithole digital platforms.
United Kingdom
The Pakistan vs Netherlands T20 World Cup match will be telecast on Sky Sports Cricket & Sky Sports Main Event and the online streaming will be available on NOW and Sky Go streaming apps from 5:30 am BST in the United Kingdom on Saturday.
USA
The Pakistan vs Netherlands T20 World Cup match can be watched via Willow TV network and the live streaming can be availed on Willow's streaming platforms and on Disney+/ESPN-related availability for some feeds from 12:30 am ET (Saturday) / 9:30 pm PT in USA on Friday.
