T20 World Cup 2026: India make Surprise in Squad

Shubhman Gill is out of the Indian squad of ICC T-20World Cup 2026. Image- Cricinfo

Defending champions India have unveiled their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, 2026. The announcement came on December 20, 2025, as selectors finalised the team to defend their title in the global tournament.

Leadership and Key Picks
Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team as captain, with all-rounder Axar Patel named vice-captain. Both players are expected to play pivotal roles in India’s campaign, providing experience and balance across formats.

One of the most talked-about decisions in the squad announcement was the omission of Shubman Gill from the 15-member list. Gill, who has featured prominently in recent white-ball cricket and held leadership roles in other formats, was left out amid strategic considerations by the selection committee.

Squad Composition
The BCCI’s final lineup blends youth, experience and all-round depth. Key selections include big hitters, versatile all-rounders and India’s premier bowling attack. Notable inclusions are Ishan Kishan, recalled to the side after strong domestic form, and Rinku Singh, hailed for his finishing abilities.

India’s announced squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Axar Patel (Vice-Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper-Batter), Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper-Batter), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh.

Preparation and Lead-Up
The same squad has also been named for India’s five-match T20I series against New Zealand, scheduled in January 2026, which will serve as a final tune-up before the World Cup.

India will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against the United States on February 7, followed by matches against Namibia, Pakistan and Netherlands in the group stage.

crifosports/20December25/AZ