India will begin their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 title defence against the United States in a Group A clash at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on February 7. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the defending champions are aiming to achieve two historic milestones — successfully defending a T20 World Cup title and winning the tournament on home soil.
The Men in Blue enter the match as strong favourites, but the USA side, led by Monank Patel, has already shown in recent years that they can compete against top teams.
Match Details
| Match | India vs USA |
|---|---|
| Date | February 7, 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Toss Time | 6:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
| Live Telecast | Star Sports Network |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar |
India vs USA Head-to-Head Record
India and USA have faced each other only once in T20 Internationals so far.
| Matches | India Won | USA Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Their only meeting came during the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York, where India secured a comfortable victory.
What this means:
- India have a perfect record against USA.
- USA are still building experience at the highest level.
- This match will be their first meeting on Indian soil.
Current Form and Team Strength
India have been one of the most dominant T20I sides in recent times. Since winning the World Cup in 2024, they have played aggressive cricket with strong batting depth and a balanced bowling attack.
The team has adapted well even after the retirement of senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, with young players stepping into key roles.
USA, on the other hand, continue to grow as a competitive Associate nation. Their biggest achievement came in the previous World Cup when they defeated Pakistan and reached the Super 8 stage, proving they can challenge stronger teams.
Probable Playing XI
India Probable XI
- Ishan Kishan (wk)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Suryakumar Yadav (c)
- Tilak Varma
- Rinku Singh
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Shivam Dube
- Arshdeep Singh
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Jasprit Bumrah*
*Bumrah’s availability remains uncertain due to illness, and the team management may take a late decision.
USA Probable XI
- Monank Patel (c)
- Andries Gous (wk)
- Saiteja Mukkamalla
- Shayan Jahangir
- Milind Kumar
- Shubham Ranjane
- Harmeet Singh
- Mohammad Mohsin
- Ali Khan
- Nosthush Kenjige
- Saurabh Netravalkar
Key Players to Watch
India
Ishan Kishan
The left-hander has been in excellent form and is expected to open the innings. His aggressive start could set the tone.
Varun Chakaravarthy
His mystery spin can trouble inexperienced batters and make a big impact in the middle overs.
Suryakumar Yadav
The captain remains India’s biggest match-winner in the T20 format with his 360-degree batting.
USA
Saurabh Netravalkar
The left-arm pacer is USA’s main strike bowler and has performed well against strong teams.
Ali Khan
An experienced T20 specialist who brings pace and variation.
Monank Patel
The captain’s performance at the top will be crucial for USA’s chances.
Pitch Report – Wankhede Stadium
The Wankhede surface is known to be batting-friendly, especially under lights.
Pitch Characteristics
- Good bounce and pace
- Favourable for stroke play
- Short boundaries
- High-scoring matches expected
Fast bowlers may get some early swing, but the pitch generally supports batters throughout the game.
Who Has the Upper Hand?
India clearly start as favourites due to:
- Strong recent record (31 wins in last 41 T20Is)
- Home conditions advantage
- Greater experience and depth
However, USA’s fearless approach and improving standards mean they cannot be taken lightly.
India and USA Full Squads
India Squad
Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh.
USA Squad
Monank Patel (c), Jessy Singh, Andries Gous, Shehan Jayasuriya, Milind Kumar, Shayan Jahangir, Saiteja Mukkamala, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Harmeet Singh, Nosthush Kenjige, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Saurabh Netravalkar, Ali Khan, Mohammad Mohsin, Shubham Ranjane.
FAQs
1. When is the India vs USA T20 World Cup 2026 match?
The match will be played on February 7, 2026, at 7:00 PM IST.
2. Where is the match being played?
The game will take place at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
3. What is the head-to-head record between India and USA?
India lead the head-to-head 1–0 in T20 Internationals.
4. Who is leading India in the 2026 T20 World Cup?
Suryakumar Yadav is the captain.
5. Where can fans watch the match live?
The match will be telecast on Star Sports Network and streamed on JioHotstar.
