Will Rain Wash Out India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup Showdown? Details Inside

The T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan is scheduled to be played on Sunday at the R Premadasa Stadium, subject to weather conditions.

Rain and thunderstorms are forecast in Colombo on February 15. Hourly predictions indicate scattered thunderstorms, with the probability of rain rising to around 55 to 60 percent during the afternoon and evening. A washout remains a possibility.

The slowness of the track could bring spinners into focus.

One of the key contests will be between Abhishek Sharma and Shaheen Shah Afridi. Pakistan’s premier fast bowler has not looked at his best in this T20 World Cup. He had an off day against the USA, but the left arm pacer remains a threat. His powerplay battle with Abhishek Sharma could determine the direction of the match.

Abhishek and Shaheen went after each other during the Asia Cup, with the Indian opener hitting a first ball six. Abhishek is returning after illness and is likely to replace Sanju Samson in the playing eleven.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammed Amir, on the show 'Haarna Mana Hai', called him a slogger, while Umar Gul, on The Dug Out, said Pakistan’s pacers should cramp him for room and target his right shoulder with a bouncer.

Pakistan held an extensive net session on Friday. Abrar Ahmad and Shadab Khan bowled in tandem to left handed batters Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman. Usman Tariq and Mohammad Nawaz bowled to Sahibzada Farhan, Usman Khan and Agha Salman before later bowling to Shaheen Shah Afridi. Saim Ayub also bowled after completing his batting drills.

Pakistan are set to field Abrar, Tariq, Nawaz, Shadab and Ayub against India. Former Pakistan spinner Imad Wasim has warned India that if they go all guns blazing, Pakistan’s five prong spin attack could put them in a tangle.

For India, the focus will be on Shivam Dube in the middle overs. His role will be to counter Pakistan’s spinners.

India may consider changes to the playing eleven due to pitch and weather conditions. Kuldeep Yadav remains an option. He has taken eight wickets in three Asia Cup matches against Pakistan.

Including Kuldeep could require leaving out either Rinku Singh or Arshdeep Singh. Another option is to play Washington Sundar at number eight to add bowling depth while maintaining batting cover.

With the possibility of rain interruptions, pacers could also play a significant role if conditions assist seam movement.