As Team India prepares to defend their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 crown, cricketers Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, along with members of the support staff, paid a visit to Mumbai’s Shri Siddhivinayak Ganpati Temple to seek blessings ahead of the tournament.

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The visit continues a long-standing tradition among Indian cricketers of offering prayers before major competitions. Kuldeep and Varun, key figures in India’s spin attack, were seen performing rituals and seeking divine guidance as the team readies itself for the pressure of a global event. India are scheduled to open their campaign later today against the United States.

However, India’s preparations have been hit by an early setback, with star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah set to miss the opening match due to a viral fever. According to a report by The Indian Express, Bumrah was present at the Wankhede Stadium on the eve of the game but did not take part in training, prompting the team management to rest him as a precaution.

With Bumrah sidelined and all-rounder Washington Sundar also unavailable due to injury, India will field just 13 fully fit players for the opener. Mohammed Siraj is expected to shoulder the new-ball responsibilities in Bumrah’s absence.

Captain Suryakumar Yadav and the bowling unit will now have to recalibrate their plans as India begin their title defence on home soil. The focus remains on ensuring Bumrah’s full recovery so he can return for the more demanding stages of the tournament.