Team India have announced their much-anticipated squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and it comes with several headline-making decisions. The biggest talking point from the selection meeting is the exclusion of Shubman Gill, who was serving as vice-captain in the shortest format, while Axar Patel has been elevated to the deputy’s role. The squad was officially unveiled at a press conference addressed by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia, India captain Suryakumar Yadav, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
Shubman Gill dropped and Axar Patel named deputy of Suryakumar Yadav
Gill’s absence from the 15-man squad has raised eyebrows, especially considering his leadership role in recent T20I series. However, Agarkar clarified that the decision was driven purely by team balance and current combinations rather than past roles.
“Shubman was the vice-captain, he’s not in the team. Axar was the vice-captain when the T20s used to clash,” Agarkar said, underlining the selectors’ preference for flexibility and all-round options heading into a global tournament.
Axar’s promotion reflects India’s continued emphasis on multi-skilled players who can influence games in multiple phases, particularly on varied conditions expected during the World Cup.
Ishan Kishan earns recall after SMAT heroics
One of the most positive stories from the selection is the return of Ishan Kishan. The left-hander forced his way back into the national setup after a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign. Kishan finished the tournament as the highest run-scorer and crowned it with a match-winning century in the final, guiding Jharkhand to a memorable title triumph.
His recent form and ability to dominate the powerplay made him an irresistible pick for the selectors, especially with India keen on explosive starts at the top of the order.
Rinku Singh back as finisher in big-tournament plans
Another notable inclusion is Rinku Singh, who has found himself in and out of the T20I side over the past year. Despite limited opportunities, Rinku’s reputation as a calm and destructive finisher has worked in his favour.
“Combinations more than anything else, two keepers at the top. Rinku comes who gives that lower middle-order option,” Agarkar explained, highlighting the need for depth and flexibility in crunch moments.
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Likely combinations and leadership core
With Gill missing, Sanju Samson is expected to continue as the wicketkeeper-batter and could open alongside Abhishek Sharma. The squad also features experienced campaigners like Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, alongside a strong spin contingent led by Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy.
As India lock in their plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, the message from the selectors is clear: current form, adaptability, and role clarity will trump reputation as the Men in Blue chase another global title.
India squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Suryakumar Yadav (c), Jasprit Bumrah, Abhishek Sharma, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, Tilak Varma, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakaravarthy, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel (vc), Ishan Kishan (wk), Rinku Singh
