BCCI explains Shubman Gill’s omission from T20 World Cup 2026 squad

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified the reasons behind the exclusion of star batter Shubman Gill from India’s 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The decision, which sparked widespread debate among fans, was attributed to team combination and strategic balance rather than solely individual form.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the issue during a press conference, explaining that Gill’s recent dip in form and the need for a specific team structure influenced the call. 

“Shubman Gill is short of runs at the moment and missed the last World Cup too. Someone has to miss out when you pick 15,” Agarkar said. He also hinted that Sanju Samson is likely to open the batting alongside Abhishek Sharma.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav echoed similar views, stressing that the management wanted a wicketkeeper-batter at the top of the order. “It’s not about Gill’s form. We wanted to have a keeper at the top,” he clarified.

Key Inclusions and Exclusions

Apart from Gill, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma also missed out on selection. In contrast, Ishan Kishan made a strong comeback into the squad following his explosive performances while leading Jharkhand to a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title. Rinku Singh also returned to the T20I setup after being left out of India’s recent series win in South Africa. All-rounder Axar Patel was named vice-captain, adding depth and balance to the side.

India Team Squad For ICC T20 World Cup 2026

India Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Axar Patel (vc), Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Rinku Singh

Road to T20 World Cup 2026

The Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, 2026. Forty group-stage matches will be played before the Super Eights begin on February 21. Defending champions India are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, USA, Netherlands and Namibia.

India will begin their campaign against USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on February 7, followed by matches against Namibia, Pakistan and the Netherlands.

With a carefully balanced squad and home advantage, India will be aiming to make history by defending their T20 World Cup title and lifting the trophy for a record third time.