India's T20 World Cup 2026 squad announced

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik opened up about Team India's squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Karthik expressed confidence that the selectors and team management have a clear idea of their starting XI, with at least 14 of the 15 players confirmed.

The Men in Blue continued their dominance in Asia Cup history by claiming their ninth title on Sunday, September 28. The Suryakumar Yadav-led team defeated Pakistan by five wickets in Dubai in the summit clash. They completed the continental tournament unbeaten, winning all seven of their matches.

India Clear Favorites For ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Gautam Gambhir's side is the clear favorite for the T20 World Cup 2026, given the team’s dominant run in T20Is. Since lifting the trophy in 2024, they have played 27 matches, winning 24, with an outstanding win-loss ratio of 7.33, an exceptional record in a format known for its unpredictability.

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The team has seamlessly moved on from the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja. India secured the Asia Cup 2025 trophy unbeaten, which highlights the skill gap between them and other teams.

The Men in Blue now aim to defend their crown in 2026 under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav. Notably, they are well-suited to the subcontinent conditions for the tournament.

They Know What Their Starting XI - Dinesh Karthik on T20 World Cup 2026

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Dinesh Karthik stated that the team already has clarity on their squad for the T20 World Cup 2026. He added that the lineup is expected to be similar to India’s Asia Cup combination, unless major changes occur.

"I am very confident and sure that India know what their starting XI is — at least 14 out of 15 players are settled. You can be rest assured it will be very similar to what we saw in the Asia Cup. They’re likely to go with a combination of Bumrah, Hardik, and three spinners, unless something drastically changes," Dinesh said.

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Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir Trust Their Spinners More - Dinesh Karthik

Dinesh Karthik stated that the Men in Blue will play 15 T20 matches against top opponents, including Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. He added that some players may be rested and others given chances, but the selectors and management already know exactly how they want to start.

"India have 15 T20s lined up against strong opponents like Australia and South Africa, as well as a home series against New Zealand. This gives them a solid preparation, and they know their squad well. They might rest a few key players and give opportunities to others, but by the World Cup, they will know exactly how they want to start," Karthik continued.

"I have no doubt that India have a very clear plan. Suryakumar and Gambhir operate in a way where they trust their spinners more, and playing in home conditions makes that strategy even more effective."

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