India T20 World Cup 2026 Squad Announced: Shubman Gill Dropped, Ishan Kishan Makes Comeback
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced India’s 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March 2026.
Suryakumar Yadav continues as captain, while Axar Patel has been named vice-captain. The biggest talking point from the selection is the exclusion of Shubman Gill and the return of Ishan Kishan after strong domestic performances.
India T20 World Cup 2026 Squad – Full List
- Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)
- Axar Patel (Vice-Captain)
- Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
- Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
- Abhishek Sharma (Batter)
- Tilak Varma (Batter)
- Rinku Singh (Finisher)
- Hardik Pandya (All-rounder)
- Shivam Dube (All-rounder)
- Washington Sundar (All-rounder)
- Kuldeep Yadav (Spinner)
- Varun Chakravarthy (Spinner)
- Jasprit Bumrah (Fast Bowler)
- Arshdeep Singh (Fast Bowler)
- Harshit Rana (Fast Bowler)
The squad reflects a balance of explosive batting, multiple all-rounders, a strong pace attack, and a spin-heavy bowling unit suitable for sub-continent conditions.
Why Was Shubman Gill Dropped?
The exclusion of Shubman Gill has surprised many fans. However, the selectors clarified that the decision was based on current form and team combination, not reputation.
Key reasons behind Gill’s omission:
- His recent T20 strike rate has been lower compared to aggressive openers like Abhishek Sharma.
- India’s T20 strategy is focused on high-intent batting from ball one.
- The middle order already has fixed positions for Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma.
- Gill’s role as a traditional anchor did not fit the aggressive T20 setup.
Selectors emphasized that Gill remains an important player in India’s ODI and Test plans.
Ishan Kishan’s Comeback Explained
Ishan Kishan earned his return after consistent and impactful performances in domestic cricket. He was among the top run-scorers in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scoring runs at a high strike rate.
His ability to attack in the powerplay and provide a left-hand option made him a valuable choice. Along with Sanju Samson, he strengthens India’s wicketkeeping and top-order depth.
Key Strengths of India’s Squad
- Leadership: Suryakumar Yadav’s calm and attacking captaincy.
- Spin Attack: Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy form a potent spin duo.
- Death Bowling: Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh bring experience and accuracy.
- Finishers: Rinku Singh and Hardik Pandya add power at the end.
India T20 World Cup 2026 – Key Matches
India has been placed in a competitive group. Some key fixtures include:
- February 7, 2026: India vs USA (Opening Match)
- February 15, 2026: India vs Pakistan (High-voltage clash)
With home conditions and a spin-friendly setup, India will look to dominate the group stage.
Can India Defend the T20 World Cup Title?
This squad reflects a bold and modern T20 approach, prioritizing intent over reputation. The exclusion of Shubman Gill highlights the selectors’ focus on match-winning impact rather than safe options.
With home advantage, a strong bowling attack, and experienced leadership, India enters the T20 World Cup 2026 as one of the top contenders.
Final Verdict: A fearless, balanced squad built for modern T20 cricket.
What do you think? Was dropping Shubman Gill the right decision? Share your opinion in the comments.