India T20 World Cup 2026 Squad: Announcement Time, Date, and How to Watch

Cricket fans can mark their calendars: the Indian team for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 and the T20I series against New Zealand in January will be unveiled this Saturday at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai. The announcement, featuring captain Suryakumar Yadav and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, promises insights into the team's strategy for the upcoming events.

India's journey in the T20 World Cup 2026 will begin on February 7 in Mumbai against the United States. They are placed in Group A along with Namibia, the Netherlands, and Pakistan.

**Key Players in Contention**

Several players are vying for a spot on the team:

• Abhishek Sharma:** After an impressive T20 season, Sharma seems likely to be included. This year, he has amassed 825 runs in 20 matches, boasting an average of 43.42 and a strike rate exceeding 195. His scores include a century and five fifties, with a highest score of 135.
• Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill:** Despite facing challenges this year, the captain and vice-captain are expected to hold their positions. Yadav has scored 213 runs in 18 innings, averaging 14.20, while Gill has 291 runs in 15 innings, averaging 24.25.
• Tilak Varma:** Varma is another strong contender, having made a mark in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan. His versatility in anchoring innings and attacking at number three makes him valuable. This year in T20Is, he has scored 494 runs at an average of 44.90, including three fifties.

**Wicketkeeping Choices**

The wicketkeeping options might include Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma, with the final decision hinging on team dynamics and current form. Ishan Kishan, fresh off a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy win where he was the leading run-scorer with 517 runs in 10 innings, is also in consideration.

**All-rounders and the Bowling Attack**

The team's depth in both batting and bowling could be bolstered by all-rounders such as Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar. Kuldeep Yadav may be the primary specialist spinner, with support from Sundar and Patel. Jasprit Bumrah is expected to lead the pace attack, potentially joined by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. Fan favorites Rinku Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal, while not currently part of the T20I setup, are also possibilities.

**How to Watch the Announcement**

• Time:** 1:30 pm IST on Saturday, December 20
• Location:** BCCI headquarters, Wankhede Stadium complex, Mumbai
• Live TV:** Star Sports Network
• Online Streaming:** JioHotstar website and app.