Mumbai | December 20, 2025
In a decisive move that underlines India’s shift towards an aggressive T20 blueprint, the national selectors on Saturday announced the squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, leaving out star batter Shubman Gill while appointing Axar Patel as vice-captain under skipper Suryakumar Yadav.
The selection, finalised after a meeting in Mumbai, signals a clear intent to prioritise impact over reputation as India prepares for the global event beginning in February.
Bold Call: Shubman Gill Left Out
Gill’s exclusion emerged as the most talked-about decision of the selection process. Despite his consistency in Tests and ODIs, the right-hander has struggled to cement his place in India’s T20I setup, particularly at the top of the order.
Concerns around his powerplay strike rate and inability to provide explosive starts appear to have weighed heavily against him. His modest returns in the recent South Africa series further weakened his case.
Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar acknowledged the decision candidly, stating that Gill’s current form and past World Cup omission were key considerations.
Axar Patel Elevated as Deputy to Suryakumar
All-rounder Axar Patel has been rewarded for his consistent performances and tactical value with the role of vice-captain. His promotion reflects the team management’s emphasis on versatility and balance in the shortest format.
Axar’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball, especially in pressure situations, has made him a vital cog in India’s T20 plans.
Ishan Kishan and Rinku Singh Make a Comeback
The selectors also recalled Ishan Kishan, reinforcing their preference for a left-right combination and an attacking wicketkeeper-batter at the top. Kishan’s return follows a prolific domestic season, where he played a key role in Jharkhand’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph.
Explosive finisher Rinku Singh retains his place, continuing India’s commitment to a specialist batter capable of changing games in the final overs.
Kishan’s inclusion, however, meant Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jitesh Sharma missed out on selection.
Power-Packed Batting and All-Round Depth
India’s batting unit reflects a clear intent to dominate from ball one. Alongside Suryakumar, the squad features Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube, offering a blend of flair, muscle, and flexibility.
The all-round department remains a stronghold, with Hardik expected to shoulder the responsibility of balancing the XI, supported by Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, who add both control and batting depth.
Bowling Attack Blends Experience with Youth
India’s pace battery will be spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, partnered by left-armer Arshdeep Singh, who has established himself as a reliable T20 performer.
Young fast bowler Harshit Rana earns a call-up, highlighting the selectors’ forward-looking approach and trust in raw pace.
Spin duties will be handled by Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, a combination that offers wrist-spin variety and mystery during the middle overs.
India’s Group Stage Schedule
India will open their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against the USA on February 7, followed by matches against Namibia (February 12) and arch-rivals Pakistan (February 15) in Colombo.
The team will conclude Group A fixtures with a clash against the Netherlands in Ahmedabad on February 18. The Super 8 stage begins on February 21, with the final scheduled for March 8.
India Squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (Vice-Captain), Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Ishan Kishan (WK), Rinku Singh
