Shubman Gill axed as India announce T20 World Cup squad

New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting February 7, 2026. As defending champions and one of the tournament hosts, India enter the competition with high expectations and a blend of experience and emerging talent.

Suryakumar Yadav leads the side as captain, marking his first major ICC tournament in charge. His success rate as skipper make him a natural choice to guide a balanced Indian unit, although his poor form with the bat will be a concern. Supporting him as vice-captain is all-rounder Axar Patel, reflecting the selectors’ emphasis on strategic flexibility.

One of the most talked-about decisions in the squad announcement was the omission of Shubman Gill — who had served as vice-captain in recent T20Is — due to a lean run of form in the shortest format and tactical considerations around team combinations. In his place, the selectors have brought back Ishan Kishan, rewarding his rich performances in domestic competitions like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

The squad boasts a strong batting lineup with Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma providing aggression at the top, while seasoned campaigners Sanju Samson and Rinku Singh add power and finishing capability in the middle order. Hard-hitting all-rounders like Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube reinforce India’s depth across both batting and bowling facets.

India’s bowling attack is spearheaded by the consistent Jasprit Bumrah and left-armer Arshdeep Singh, backed up by the experienced spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy. The presence of Washington Sundar and Axar Patel ensures spin-friendly options in middle overs, essential for subcontinental conditions.

This squad reflects India’s intent to balance calculated experience with aggressive T20 prowess, aiming to defend their title in front of passionate home crowds. With conditions expected to favour both spin and pace at different venues across India and Sri Lanka, the team looks well equipped for various match situations.

India squad

Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Axar Patel (Vice-Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh

Tags : Indian cricket team, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shubman Gill, T20 World Cup