India vs USA Dream11 Prediction, Match 3 – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 | Fantasy Tips, Playing 11
India vs USA in the 3rd match of Group A at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is one of the most anticipated early contests of the tournament. Team India — boasting a fearsome batting lineup and versatile bowling options — enters as the overwhelming favourite. Meanwhile, the USA have rapidly improved in international T20 cricket and will be eyeing a competitive performance against one of the world’s strongest sides. With momentum, early World Cup points, and huge fantasy point potential on the line, this clash promises high-octane entertainment for cricket fans and Dream11 players alike.
📆 Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | India vs USA |
| Tournament | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Match Number | 3 – Group A |
| Date | Sunday, 8 February 2026 |
| Time (IST) | 07:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
| Format | T20 International |
📝 Pitch Report – Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
The Wankhede Stadium traditionally favours batters under lights with short boundaries and a true fast outfield. Expect brisk scoring, especially in the middle overs once the surface eases out. Early movement might assist seamers at the start, but runs can flow freely once batters get their eye in.
Expected First Innings Score:
🏏 175–200+ runs
Fantasy Impact:
- Top-order batters will be premium picks
- All-rounders gain extra value for dual contributions
- Bowlers with variation (spin + death overs) important
🧠 Team Preview & Probable Playing XI
India Preview
India come into this match as favourites with a world-class batting lineup and strong bowling depth. With experienced match-winners and explosive young talent, India’s balance makes them a serious title contender.
Probable Playing XI – India
- Ishan Kishan
- Abhishek Sharma (c)
- Tilak Verma
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya
- Rinku Singh
- Shivam Dube
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Arshdeep Singh
(Final XI may change based on toss and conditions.)
USA Preview
USA are growing in experience with impactful T20 talent capable of big hitting and disciplined bowling. They will look to make the most of any opportunity against India, particularly in middle overs and through powerplay wickets.
Probable Playing XI – USA
- Aaron Jones
- Andries Gous
- Steven Taylor
- Monank Patel (c & wk)
- Corey Anderson
- Timil Patel
- Saurabh Netravalkar
- Ali Khan
- Jasdeep Singh
- Rusty Theron
- Ali Sheikh
🔥 Top Fantasy Picks
⭐ Best Batting Picks
- Abhishek Sharma (IND): Premier run-scorer & consistent fantasy engine
- Ishan Kishan (IND): Explosive powerplay potential
🧠 Best All-Rounders
- Hardik Pandya (IND): Dual fantasy points through hitting + bowling
- Corey Anderson (USA): Middle-order batsman with hitting capability
🎯 Best Bowling Picks
- Jasprit Bumrah (IND): Strike bowler, very high points potential
- Ali Khan (USA): Death overs specialist with pace
🎯 Captain & Vice-Captain Picks
Safe Choices (Small Leagues):
- Captain: Abhishek Sharma
- Vice-Captain: Jasprit Bumrah
Risky Picks (Grand Leagues):
- Captain: Ishan Kishan
- Vice-Captain: Hardik Pandya
🧠 Match Prediction & Fantasy Tips
India are likely to dominate this contest given their superior depth in batting and bowling. However, USA’s fearless batting and variety in bowling could provide moments of upset if India lose early wickets. From a fantasy cricket perspective, stacking India’s top 5 batters with one or two multifunctional bowlers offers the best balance.
📌 Predicted Winner: India
(Prediction based on form, team strength, and pitch conditions; always check final XI after toss.)
✍️ Conclusion
The India vs USA match shapes up as a high-scoring T20I with multiple fantasy point opportunities. Big hitters, powerplay scorers, and strike bowlers are crucial for Dream11 lineups. With both teams eager to start their World Cup campaigns on a strong note, this fixture promises fireworks and high fantasy returns.
