PAK vs NED: Will Rain Play Spoilsport In Match 1 Of T20 World Cup 2026? Colombo Weather Report

PAK vs NED: The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 is set to get underway with Pakistan locking horns with the Netherlands at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground in Colombo on Saturday, February 7. The tournament opener will begin at 11:00 am IST, and is expected to attract significant global attention as the curtain-raiser for the marquee event.

Pakistan enter the competition under intense spotlight, particularly after their decision to boycott the much-anticipated group-stage clash against India later in the tournament. That development has further heightened interest in their opening fixture, as fans and experts will be eager to assess how the Men in Green start their campaign.

Pakistan also carry a strong record against the Netherlands in T20

World Cup history, having defeated them in both their previous meetings, including the 2022 edition. Across formats, Pakistan have maintained a flawless head-to-head record against the Dutch side.

The SSC surface in Colombo is historically known to favour spin bowling, making it a venue where slower bowlers often dictate terms. While the last T20 International played at the ground dates back to 2010, recent matches suggest that batting conditions have improved. Average first-innings scores at the venue now hover around the 170-run mark, indicating a more balanced contest between bat and ball. The Netherlands recently played a warm-up fixture at this ground against Zimbabwe but fell short while chasing a target of 179, eventually finishing with 149 runs.

Colombo Weather Report

Weather, however, could emerge as a major talking point. Forecasts indicate that while conditions are expected to remain clear during the morning, cloud cover is likely to increase as the day progresses. There is a considerable chance of rainfall in the afternoon, with precipitation probability touching 68 percent. If rain arrives during the second innings, it could disrupt proceedings and potentially influence the match result.

Given the weather outlook, teams may prefer to bowl first to avoid complications later in the game. The possibility of rain interruptions raises concerns about a shortened contest or, in the worst-case scenario, a complete washout - similar to Pakistan's warm-up fixture against Ireland. With excitement building around the tournament opener, all eyes will now be on Colombo's skies as much as the action on the field.