India have taken a bold selection call by excluding vice-captain Shubman Gill from their squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The decision marks a clear shift in team strategy, with the selectors opting for greater flexibility at the top of the batting order.
Ishan Kishan Returns, Rinku Singh Back in T20 Setup
Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has earned a recall after a stellar run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he scored 517 runs at an explosive strike rate close to 200. His inclusion as an opening option allowed India to bring back Rinku Singh, who had been missing from recent T20I squads.
This change, however, meant Jitesh Sharma, the first-choice wicketkeeper in recent bilateral series, missed out despite consistent performances.
Axar Patel Named Vice-Captain
With Gill no longer part of the squad, Axar Patel has been appointed as the new vice-captain. The remainder of the squad largely followed expected lines, focusing on balance and match-up flexibility.
Bowling Attack and All-Round Options
India’s pace attack will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, supported by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. The spin department features Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, with Axar Patel and Washington Sundar providing all-round spin options.
Seam-bowling all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube strengthen the middle order alongside captain Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and the hard-hitting Rinku Singh.
Selectors Explain Gill’s Omission
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar clarified that Gill’s exclusion was purely tactical. India’s management preferred a wicketkeeper opening the innings to allow multiple combinations within the 15-man squad.
Gill has scored 291 runs in 15 T20I innings at the top without registering a half-century. He also missed the final T20I against South Africa due to a foot injury, where Sanju Samson impressed with a quick 37 off 22 balls.
Same Squad for New Zealand Series
The selected squad will also feature in the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, offering the team an opportunity to fine-tune combinations ahead of the World Cup.
India Squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), 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 (WK)
