As anticipation grows for one of cricket’s most exciting rivalries, Indiaassistant coach of Ryan Ten Doeschate has acknowledged that the upcoming t20 world cup 2026 struggle against Pakistan It won’t be straight. Although political uncertainty over the event affected preparations for some time, the Indian camp insists that their focus was never diverted.
India was prepared for high-profile match: Ryan ten Doeschate
Speaking in Delhi on Tuesday, just a day after Pakistan officially withdrew its boycott stance for the February 15 group-stage clash, Ten Doeschate expressed relief that the competition will go ahead as scheduled. More importantly, he underlined that India had made full preparations with the assumption that there would be a high-profile game.
“First of all, it’s great that sports has started back,” Ten Doeschate said while talking to reporters before the match against India namibia.
“We never changed our preparations thinking that this would not happen. We were confident that something would be resolved, so from our side, there has been no significant change in the plan.” He added.
Also read: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Pakistan’s U-turn on boycott stance against India in T20 World Cup 2026
Ten Doeschate on India’s challenge against Pakistan
This important match will be played against Colombo’s R. Will be played at the Premadasa Stadium – a venue where Pakistan is already well established. The men in green have been in the Sri Lankan capital for almost two weeks and are playing their opening group matches at the Sinhalese Sports Club. According to Ten Doeschate, that extended stay could provide a subtle but meaningful benefit to Pakistan.
“It will be a challenge to go to Colombo where Pakistan have been for the last two weeks. They have time to adapt to the conditions, the weather and the pitches. We understand that and respect that.” Ten Doeschate explained.
Pakistan have also enjoyed a four-day break between their second group encounter on February 10 and the clash with India on February 15 – a window that allows them to adjust and fine-tune their strategy. India, on the other hand, faces a much more intensive programme. They are set to play Namibia in Delhi on Thursday before flying to Colombo on February 13 – there will be minimal time to adjust to local conditions before the blockbuster showdown.
