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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed the 15-member Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 as well as the upcoming tour of New Zealand, with both squads being the same. As the defending champions, having lifted the trophy in 2024, India will look to retain their title.
ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Overview
- Start Date: 7th February 2026
- Final Date: 8th March 2026
- Number of Teams: 20
- Format: Teams are divided into 4 groups of 5
- Defending Champions: India (2024)
India will enter the tournament aiming to defend their title amid stiff competition from 19 other teams.
India Announces Squad for T20 World Cup 2026 & New Zealand Tour
The 15-member Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 was announced on 20th December 2025. The announcement took place in Mumbai, where Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar, other selectors, and captain Suryakumar Yadav held a meeting. BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia officially declared the names of the players.
Leadership and Selection
- Captain: Suryakumar Yadav
- Vice-Captain: Axar Patel
Although captain Suryakumar Yadav has faced some form challenges recently, his experience will be crucial for the team. Vice-captain Axar Patel will assist in strategy and on-field decision-making.
🚨India’s squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 announced 🚨
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 20, 2025
Let's cheer for the defending champions 💪#TeamIndia | #MenInBlue | #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/7CpjGh60vk
Key Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the squad:
- Ishan Kishan – He was honored for his exceptional performance in the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
- Rinku Singh – young finisher
Excluded from the squad:
- Shubman Gill – dropped due to poor form
- Jitesh Sharma – wicketkeeper
Indian Squad 2026 (T20 World Cup & New Zealand Tour)
1. Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), 2. Axar Patel (Vice-Captain), 3. Abhishek Sharma, 4. Sanju Samson, 5. Tilak Varma, 6. Hardik Pandya, 7. Shivam Dube, 8. Rinku Singh, 9. Jasprit Bumrah, 10. Harshit Rana, 11. Arshdeep Singh, 12. Kuldeep Yadav, 13. Varun Chakravarthy, 14. Washington Sundar, 15. Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper)
Looking Ahead
With a balanced mix of experience and young talent, India will focus on form, fitness, and team strategy. Fans can look forward to an exciting campaign as India prepares for the T20 World Cup 2026 and the upcoming New Zealand tour.
Also Read: Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26: When will Virat Kohli play and against which teams?
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