The selection panel, led by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, alongside BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and captain Suryakumar Yadav, confirmed that Suryakumar will continue to lead the side for the global event, with Axar Patel named vice-captain. The squad will also feature in a five-match T20I series against New Zealand scheduled ahead of the World Cup.
Gill’s exclusion is one of the most significant talking points from the announcement. The right-hander had served as vice-captain during recent T20I assignments, including the Asia Cup and subsequent series against Australia and South Africa. However, an underwhelming year in the shortest format—291 runs from 15 innings at an average of 24.25 and a strike rate of 137.26—combined with a recent foot injury sustained during net practice in Lucknow, ultimately worked against him. Jitesh Sharma also failed to make the cut as the selectors opted for a different batting balance.
In contrast, Kishan’s recall follows a prolific domestic season. Leading Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title, the left-hander amassed 517 runs in just 10 innings at an average of 57.32 and a strike rate of 197.32. His campaign featured two half-centuries and two centuries, including a match-winning 101 off 49 balls in the final against Haryana, making a compelling case for his return to the national side.
India’s batting unit shapes up as an aggressive, power-packed lineup comprising Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh and Kishan. The all-round department will be anchored by Hardik Pandya, who recently impressed with a 63 off 25 balls in the final T20I in Ahmedabad, alongside Axar Patel, Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar.
The bowling attack reflects a balanced mix of pace and spin. Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead the fast-bowling unit, supported by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. The spin department features Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav, offering India proven wicket-taking options in middle overs.
The full squad reads: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Axar Patel (vice-captain), Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh and Rinku Singh.
Ahead of their World Cup defence, India will host New Zealand for a three-match ODI series from January 11 to January 18, followed by a five-match T20I series from January 21 to January 31. The ODI squad will be announced separately at a later date.
With the recall of in-form performers and the exclusion of established names, the selection underscores India’s intent to prioritize recent performances and adaptability as they gear up for the global stage, signaling a competitive and evolving approach to their T20 ambitions.
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