India ‘Excited’ And ‘Already Prepared’, Says Tilak Varma Ahead Of Pakistan T20 World Cup Clash

In a pre-match press conference in New Delhi, Tilak Varma confirmed that the Indian team is “already prepared” for the high-octane clash against Pakistan in Colombo on February 15, 2026.

The statement comes as a major relief to fans following a week of uncertainty where the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had initially threatened to boycott the fixture. Following a successful tripartite meeting between the ICC, PCB, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in Lahore, the Pakistan government officially cleared the team to participate on Monday.

Update on India’s Squad Fitness

Ahead of India’s next match against Namibia (February 12 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi), Tilak Varma provided crucial updates on key players:

• Abhishek Sharma: The opener has been discharged after being hospitalized for two days with a stomach infection. While he is out of the hospital, his participation in the Namibia game remains doubtful as the management prefers not to rush him back. Sanju Samson is likely to take his place in the XI.
• Jasprit Bumrah: After missing the opener against the USA due to viral fever, the pace spearhead has recovered. He bowled at “full tilt” during the practice session on Tuesday, and a final call on his inclusion will be made tomorrow.
• Washington Sundar: The all-rounder has joined the squad in Delhi after recovering from a side strain and is available for selection.

Group A: The Road Ahead

India currently sits second in Group A after a 29-run victory over the USA in their opening game.

“No team can be taken lightly. T20 is a small format, anything can happen. We will have to bring our A-game forward,” Varma said, addressing the upcoming Namibia fixture.