India have taken a decisive step in their build-up to the T20 World Cup 2026, naming a balanced squad that blends established performers with players who’ve impressed over the past year.
With the tournament set to begin in February across India and Sri Lanka, the selection also covers the upcoming home T20I series against New Zealand, offering clarity on the core group heading into the global event.
Add AllSportsPeople as a preferred news source
The announcement reflects a clear shift in approach following the retirement of several senior stars after the 2024 title win, as the team management looks to settle combinations early.
India T20 World Cup 2026 squad
According to reports following the selection meeting, Ishan Kishan and Rinku Singh have earned recalls after consistent performances in domestic cricket and recent white-ball outings.
Kishan’s return adds depth to the wicketkeeping options, while Rinku’s finishing ability continues to be valued in the middle order.
Shubman Gill, however, has been left out. It is understood that the selectors preferred players who’ve featured more regularly in T20Is over the past season.
The absence of veterans Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja was expected, with the trio having retired from T20 internationals after lifting the World Cup in 2024.
Suryakumar Yadav to lead at T20 World Cup 2026
Suryakumar Yadav has been named captain for the tournament, with Axar Patel appointed as his deputy.
The leadership group underlines the team’s intent to back players who’ve been central to India’s recent white-ball success.
The squad includes a strong pace unit led by Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, supported by a varied spin attack featuring Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy.
India will open their campaign against the USA on February 7 in Mumbai, as they aim to become the first side to successfully defend a Men’s T20 World Cup title.
India’s squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana.
Related links:
- When is India’s next T20 match? Listing India’s T20I schedule ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup
- Do IPL players pay tax? Explaining how salary cap, deductions cut into player incomes
- Which teams have won the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy?