India on Saturday announced their squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 and the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, with Ishan Kishan’s recall headlining the selection.
The wicketkeeper-batter, who recently scored a match-winning century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy to guide Jharkhand to their maiden SMAT title, has been rewarded with a place in the squad after a long absence from international cricket.
Alongside Kishan’s return, the selectors also took a tough call by dropping Shubman Gill, who has been omitted entirely following a lean run and has also lost his vice-captaincy.
Surya Continues, Axar Rewarded with Vice-Captaincy
Suryakumar Yadav will continue as India’s T20 captain, while Axar Patel has been handed the responsibility of vice-captaincy after showing promise through consistent all-round performances, underlining the management’s trust in his leadership qualities.
Gill, Jitesh Miss Out
Gill’s omission marks a significant shift in India’s T20 plans ahead of the global showpiece. Once considered a cornerstone of India’s white-ball future, the opener now faces stiff competition to force his way back into the setup.
Wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma has also been dropped, with the selectors opting for Kishan’s experience and recent form.
Core Group Retained, Form Players Backed
India have largely retained their trusted T20 core, with Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube strengthening the middle order. The pace attack will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, supported by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.
Spin continues to be a strong suit, with Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy and Washington Sundar offering variety and control.
India T20 World Cup 2026 Squad
Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)
Abhishek Sharma
Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
Tilak Varma
Hardik Pandya
Shivam Dube
Axar Patel (Vice-Captain)
Jasprit Bumrah
Rinku Singh
Harshit Rana
Arshdeep Singh
Kuldeep Yadav
Varun Chakravarthy
Washington Sundar
Ishan Kishan(WK)
Image credit: X
Discussion about this post