NEW DELHI: With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 around the corner, fans are eagerly waiting to see their favourite superstars in action on the biggest stage once again. However, this edition could also mark the final chapter for several big names in the format, with many eyeing one last shot at glory before calling time.
The dream for them will be to lift the trophy and bid farewell to cricket on a high. Here, we look at a few players who might retire after this World Cup.
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Here are top 5 players who are likely to retire after T20 World Cup 2026:
1. David Miller (South Africa)
David Miller could be approaching the final stretch of his T20I career by the World Cup 2026 . The South African batter was just inches away from glory in the last edition before the heartbreaking loss to India. Now 36, his recent form hasn’t been as consistent, but his big-match temperament still stands out. Miller has scored over 2,600 T20I runs at a strike rate above 140, numbers that underline his value as one of the format’s finest finishers.
2. Adil Rashid (England)
Adil Rashid has been England’s go-to spinner in white-ball cricket for years and remains a vital cog in their T20 setup. The leg-spinner was part of England’s title-winning campaign at the T20 World Cup 2022 and has delivered multiple clutch spells on the biggest stage. At 37, this could be his final opportunity to sign off with another global trophy.
3. Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
Glenn Maxwell is already a modern-day T20 great and a key member of Australia’s 2021 World Cup-winning side. Known for his unorthodox strokeplay and game-changing ability, Maxwell has scored more than 2,800 T20I runs at a blistering strike rate of over 155. He has also chipped in with 49 wickets, highlighting his all-round impact. At 37 and retired from ODIs, Maxwell may look to bring the curtain down on his T20I career on a high in 2026.
4. Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan)
Mohammad Nabi has been central to Afghanistan’s rise in international cricket for over a decade. At 41, the veteran all-rounder continues to be a reliable presence with both bat and ball. Nabi has amassed more than 2,430 T20I runs and picked up 104 wickets, numbers that reflect his immense contribution. With Afghanistan growing stronger each year, the 2026 World Cup could be Nabi’s final act on the world stage.
5. Johnson Charles (West Indies)
Johnson Charles remains one of West Indies’ most experienced T20 campaigners and an explosive option at the top. The 37-year-old from Saint Lucia was part of the West Indies squads that won the T20 World Cup in 2012 and 2016. This edition as a chance to chase a rare third world title before stepping away from international cricket.
