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MUMBAI, December 20, 2025 — The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the preceding five-match T20I series against New Zealand. In a significant leadership shift, Suryakumar Yadav will captain the defending champions, with all-rounder Axar Patel appointed as his deputy.
The announcement, made at the BCCI headquarters by Secretary Devajit Saikia and Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar, featured several high-profile calls—most notably the omission of star opener Shubman Gill.
Key Highlights: Recalls and Omissions
The most discussed talking point of the selection is the exclusion of Shubman Gill, who had recently served as vice-captain. Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar noted that the decision was based on “squad combinations” and a desire for more explosive options at the top of the order.
Ishan Kishan Returns: Following a stellar domestic run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Ishan Kishan has earned a recall. He joins Sanju Samson as the two primary wicketkeeping options.
The Finishers: Power-hitter Rinku Singh has been included in the main 15-man squad, rewarding his consistent performances as a late-innings specialist.
Spin Twin Dominance: The “Kul-Cha” era (Kuldeep-Chahal) has evolved, as the selectors opted for the duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy to lead the spin attack, supported by Axar Patel and Washington Sundar.
The Squad Breakdown
The squad strikes a balance between seasoned veterans and the “new age” of Indian T20 cricket, led by the prolific Abhishek Sharma at the top.
Category Players
Batters Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh
Wicketkeepers Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan
All-Rounders Axar Patel (VC), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar
Spinners Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy
Pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana
Road to the World Cup
India will use the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand as their final dress rehearsal. The team management intends to play the same 15-member squad to build cohesion before the World Cup begins on February 7, 2026.
“We have got a good squad now and our combinations are ready,” Captain Suryakumar Yadav said during the press conference. “One or two players keep changing, but the core remains focused on the brand of cricket we want to play.”
India enters the 2026 tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, as the defending champions and heavy favorites. They will open their campaign against the USA in Mumbai.
