The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced India’s 15-member squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be played from 7 February to 8 March 2026. Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed captain for the marquee event.
In a major selection decision, Shubman Gill has been removed from the vice-captaincy and left out of the squad, with selectors citing a combination of form and fitness considerations.
Axar Patel Returns as Vice-Captain
All-rounder Axar Patel has been reinstated as India’s vice-captain, reflecting the team management’s trust in his consistency and versatility. His presence strengthens both the spin department and the middle order.
Ishan Kishan Back, Rinku Singh Recalled
Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan makes a return to the T20 setup as the second wicketkeeping option. Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma have been locked in as India’s opening pair, while Rinku Singh earns a recall to bolster the middle-order firepower.
The batting core is further reinforced by Tilak Varma, along with seam-bowling all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, giving India depth and flexibility.
Balanced Bowling Attack
India’s bowling unit features a strong mix of pace and spin. Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead the fast-bowling attack, supported by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. In spin, Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy are the frontline options, with Axar Patel and Washington Sundar providing additional spin depth.
With a blend of experience, explosiveness, and all-round balance, the squad reflects India’s intent to mount a serious title challenge.
India Squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (Vice-Captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan
