Defending champions and co-hosts of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have unveiled their squad as preparations begin for the global showpiece starting on February 7, with India targeting a record third T20 World Cup title.
India have handed the captaincy to Suryakumar Yadav, marking his first-ever ICC tournament as skipper. All-rounder Axar Patel has been named vice-captain, stepping into the leadership group for the marquee event.
In a major selection call, Shubman Gill, India’s current One-day and Test captain, has been dropped from the T20 World Cup squad.
Selectors appear to have opted for specialist T20 performers as India look to defend their title on home soil.
Ishan Kishan returns
Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan makes his return to the T20 setup, strengthening India’s middle-order options. The batting unit also features Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, and Rinku Singh, offering a mix of youth, explosiveness, and finishing ability.
India have backed experience and versatility by retaining Hardik Pandya, who adds balance with both bat and ball. The pace attack will be led by Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, with Harshit Rana included as an additional fast-bowling option.
Spin remains a major strength, with Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav named as frontline wrist spinners. They will be supported by all-round spin options Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, giving India flexibility across conditions.
India’s squad for T20 World Cup 2026
The full squad announced by the defending champions is:
Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Axar Patel (vice-captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh.
With a blend of proven stars and emerging talent, India will enter the tournament as one of the favourites to lift the trophy once again.
According to the ICC schedule, Pakistan will begin their T20 World Cup campaign in Colombo. Their opening match will be against the Netherlands on February 7 in Colombo, while the highly anticipated Pakistan–India clash is scheduled to take place at the same venue on February 15.
The final of the ICC T20 World Cup will be played on March 8. Overall, the tournament will run from February 7 to March 8.
