Why Pakistan is likely to be eliminated from the Group Stage of the T20 World Cup 2026, their schedule leaves them with…

By Correspondent On Feb 3, 2026

The group stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 looks challenging for Pakistan. The 2009 champions, Pakistan, are scheduled to play their first two matches against the Netherlands (February 7) and the USA (February 10) in Group A. The recent upset, where the USA defeated Pakistan in a Super Over, clearly indicates that Pakistan’s vulnerability against weaker teams persists. Furthermore, the Netherlands proved themselves to be dark horses by defeating South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2022, while they also defeated a formidable team like England in 2009.

Pakistan’s Tough Schedule

Pakistan’s next group match was scheduled against India on February 15, but due to political tensions, the Pakistani government has prevented the team from playing against India. This will make it difficult for the team to strategize and gain momentum. In the group, Pakistan also has to face teams like the Netherlands, the USA, and Namibia, which will not be easy.

Pakistan’s Schedule for T20 World Cup 2026

Here is how Pakistan will proceed further in the upcoming World Cup in Sri Lanka.

February 7: Pakistan vs Netherlands, Colombo, Sinhalese Sports Club
February 10: Pakistan vs USA, Colombo, Sinhalese Sports Club
February 15: Pakistan vs India, Colombo, R. Premadasa Stadium (match unlikely to happen
February 18: Pakistan vs Namibia, Colombo, Sinhalese Sports Club

ICC Pressure and Potential Action

The ICC immediately issued a statement saying that the decision to refuse to play against India could jeopardize the credibility of international cricket. If the PCB maintains its decision, the ICC could take action such as warnings, fines, loss of hosting rights, or suspension from ICC events. However, a complete ban would be the ICC’s last resort.

The Challenge from the Netherlands and the USA

The Netherlands is considered a dark horse in this tournament. In the 2022 T20 World Cup, they knocked South Africa out of the tournament, while in 2009 they defeated England. Meanwhile, the USA showed in the 2024 World Cup that even smaller and less experienced teams can pull off major upsets, as they defeated Pakistan in a Super Over.

Pakistan’s Potential Weaknesses

In previous matches, Pakistan has faltered in its performance against weaker teams. Losing matches against teams like the USA and the Netherlands increases the likelihood of being eliminated from the group stage. Not being included in the match against India will also put pressure on the team’s group standing and mental state.