India enters the 2026 T20 World Cup on home soil as strong favourites, aiming for back-to-back T20 World Cup victories. The team will start its campaign against the United States at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav leads a confident squad, while coach Gautam Gambhir faces scrutiny after mixed results in other formats. Despite recent home defeats in Tests and ODIs, India’s 4-1 win over New Zealand reinforced their credentials for back-to-back T20 success.
The tournament’s opening was affected by political tensions. Bangladesh withdrew from the event citing security concerns and was replaced by Scotland. Pakistan later barred its team from playing India in Group A on February 15 in Colombo, reducing the group-stage spectacle but leaving India in a strong position to top the group.
India first won the T20 World Cup under Mahendra Singh Dhoni in 2007, but no team has ever achieved back-to-back T20 World Cup titles. Abhishek Sharma has replaced retired Rohit Sharma as opener, scoring at a remarkable strike rate over 194, including India’s second fastest 50 off 14 balls against New Zealand.
Suryakumar Yadav ended a batting slump with three half-centuries, while Ishan Kishan’s return strengthened the batting lineup. Bowling remains India’s strength, led by Jasprit Bumrah, with Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh forming a strong seam attack. All-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube add depth. Spinner Washington Sundar and batsman Tilak Varma are recovering from injuries and expected to play.
Bowling coach Morne Morkel highlighted flexible combinations to prevent opponents from planning against India. The team’s balance between experienced players and new talent gives them confidence in achieving back-to-back T20 success.
Legendary batsman Sunil Gavaskar expressed confidence in the squad, saying the team can recover from setbacks and continue its march toward victory. Fans across India hope the squad will deliver a historic repeat performance in the T20 World Cup 2026.
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