Table of Contents
As India gear up for a home T20 World Cup, the selectors have opted for a squad built on impact, flexibility and defined roles rather than reputation alone. With the tournament beginning on February 7, PTI profiles the players entrusted with carrying India’s title defence.
Suryakumar Yadav
India’s captain remains one of the greatest T20 batters of his generation, but he enters the World Cup amid a rare slump. Suryakumar has not scored a T20 fifty in the past 14 months, with his strike rate dipping below 125. Yet, India will rely heavily on him at No. 3, the position where he earned the ‘Mr 360’ tag. His leadership record — an 83 per cent win rate — has been impressive, but the team will need its skipper to lead with the bat as well.
Abhishek Sharma
A symbol of the new-age T20 batter, Abhishek has redefined powerplay batting. In the form of his life, the world’s No. 1 T20 batter boasts a strike rate close to 200, making his starts crucial to India’s dominance in the opening overs.
Tilak Varma
Calm in chaos, Tilak offers balance to India’s explosive top order. Technically sound yet innovative, he thrives under pressure — best illustrated by his decisive six in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan. Comfortable at No. 3 or 4 and an outstanding outfielder, Tilak is central to India’s plans.
Hardik Pandya
India’s most important all-rounder remains the glue that holds the XI together. Pandya’s presence allows India to maintain balance without compromising on batting or bowling depth. His power-hitting and pace bowling continue to make him indispensable in the shortest format.
Shivam Dube
On Indian surfaces, Dube is a specialist weapon. Particularly dangerous against spin between overs 9 and 16, he has forced captains to hide their best slow bowlers. With his medium pace improving, Dube also offers a useful bowling option on slower tracks.
Sanju Samson
With Shubman Gill omitted, Samson finally gets clarity around his role. India’s leading run-scorer in 2024, Samson had slipped down the order earlier due to team combinations. Whether as a keeper-batter or a specialist bat, he now has the platform to make runs without compromise.
Ishan Kishan
Kishan’s return is a redemption story built on performance. Dropped across formats and stripped of his central contract, the left-hander fought back through domestic cricket. Leading Jharkhand to a maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title and finishing as the tournament’s top scorer, Kishan forced his way back into contention.
Kuldeep Yadav
India’s spin X-factor, Kuldeep’s left-arm wrist spin adds deception and wicket-taking threat. His success in the Asia Cup — seven wickets at an average of 9.29, underlined his importance, especially on Indian pitches that reward guile.
Jasprit Bumrah
India’s ultimate match-winner, Bumrah’s impact transcends conditions. With unmatched control and a complete arsenal, his four overs could dictate India’s fate in crunch games.
Axar Patel
Now vice-captain, Axar brings reliability and versatility. Accurate with the ball and flexible with the bat, he can slot in anywhere, making him one of India’s most valuable assets.
Arshdeep Singh
The ideal partner for Bumrah, Arshdeep thrives on control rather than raw pace. His ability to swing the ball early and nail yorkers at the death makes him a constant threat.
Varun Chakravarthy
The mystery spinner remains difficult to decode. With minimal change in action and multiple variations, Chakravarthy’s speed through the air and improved resilience add another layer to India’s spin attack.
Harshit Rana
Preferred as the reserve seamer, Rana’s selection has drawn scrutiny. With mixed returns at the highest level, his limited role will be closely watched in a high-pressure tournament.
Washington Sundar
An understated all-round option, Sundar offers balance and depth. Despite limited recent opportunities, his off-spin and batting flexibility make him a valuable backup.
Rinku Singh
From Aligarh to the World Cup stage, Rinku’s rise has been driven by fearlessness and composure. Trusted as India’s designated finisher, his ability to close out games could prove decisive.
(By PTI Inputs)
Also Read: How Ishan Kishan forced his way into India's T20 World Cup team
