India T20 World Cup 2026 Squad Announced; Shubman Gill Misses Out, Suryakumar Yadav Captain, Check Full Squad

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced India’s 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The selection marks an important phase in India’s preparations for the global tournament, with Suryakumar Yadav named as captain and Axar Patel appointed vice-captain. The squad reflects a blend of experience and versatility as India aim to build momentum ahead of the marquee event.

Suryakumar Yadav Handed Leadership Responsibility

Suryakumar Yadav will lead the Indian side at the T20 World Cup, continuing his leadership role in the shortest format. While his recent run tally has been modest, the team management has shown faith in his ability to influence games with his aggressive approach and tactical awareness. His appointment suggests continuity in leadership as India focus on stability and adaptability ahead of the tournament.

Axar Patel has been named vice-captain, underlining his growing importance in the T20 setup. Known for his all-round capabilities, Axar provides balance to the squad with his left-arm spin and dependable lower-order batting.

Ishan Kishan Returns To T20 World Cup Setup

One of the notable inclusions in the squad is Ishan Kishan, who returns to the T20 World Cup format. The wicketkeeper-batter adds depth to India’s batting options and offers flexibility in the top and middle order. Alongside him, players such as Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakravarthy and Rinku Singh strengthen the team’s all-round and bowling combinations.

The squad also includes proven performers like Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, ensuring experience and control in the pace department, while Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar add variety to the spin attack.

Shubman Gill Misses Out Amid Fitness Concerns

Shubman Gill has not been included in the T20 World Cup squad. The batter has recently dealt with a foot injury that ruled him out of a T20I fixture, and while he has shown promise since returning, consistency has remained elusive. The selectors appear to have prioritised players with greater recent exposure in the T20 format.

Group Stage And Tournament Outlook

India have been placed in Group A for the upcoming tournament, alongside Pakistan, Netherlands, USA and Namibia. The group stage is expected to test India’s depth early, with a mix of established rivals and emerging teams. The highly anticipated clash against Pakistan is set to be one of the standout fixtures of the group phase.

The squad announcement was made at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai, with chief selector Ajit Agarkar and BCCI officials present. The selection signals India’s intent to build on recent performances and approach the World Cup with a settled core.

India T20 World Cup 2026 Squad

Surya Kumar Yadav (Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper), 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 (Wicketkeeper).