Gill Dropped, Axar Named Vice-Captain as India Announce T20 World Cup 2026 Squad

India have made a series of bold selection calls while announcing their 15-member squad for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, leaving out vice-captain Shubman Gill and wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma. All-rounder Axar Patel has been appointed as the new vice-captain.

The squad, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will also feature in the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, giving the team an opportunity to fine-tune combinations ahead of the global tournament.

Gill’s exclusion comes as a major talking point, given his leadership role in recent months. The selectors have instead opted for a middle-order heavy batting line-up, with Rinku Singh earning a place for his finishing abilities, while Ishan Kishan returns to the squad as a wicketkeeping option alongside Sanju Samson.

India, the defending champions, will be looking to retain their title after defeating South Africa in the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. The squad reflects a balance of experience and youth, with a strong all-round contingent and a varied bowling attack.

The pace department is led by Jasprit Bumrah, supported by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana, while the spin attack features Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. All-round options Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube add depth to both batting and bowling.

India’s Squad for T20 World Cup 2026:
Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper)

With key omissions and leadership changes, the selection signals India’s intent to back current form and adaptability as they prepare to defend their T20 World Cup crown.