19 December 2025 Former Indian opener and noted cricket analyst Akash Chopra took to his YouTube channel to reveal his predicted 15-man squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament is scheduled to start on February 7, 2026 India and Sri LankaChopra’s selection highlights a strategic shift towards multi-skilled utility players and mystery spin.
Aakash Chopra picks India’s squad for T20 World Cup 2026
It reflects the ongoing form in his squad South Africa series and historic high-scoring feats Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) final. While the core of the 2024 championship team remains, Chopra’s latest analysis suggests significant changes in the leadership hierarchy and finishing roles that define India’s T20 identity.
Vice-captain issue: Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill
A key point of discussion in Chopra’s analysis was the uncertainty surrounding the vice-captaincy. Shubman Gill. Although Chopra has included Gill in his squad as a specialist opener, he has expressed doubts about his longevity in the leadership role due to recent fitness issues and a dip in T20I scores. Chopra suggested that voters may be back Hardik Pandya to act as deputy Suryakumar Yadav.
“The fact is that Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill and Sanju Samson will be the three openers in this team. I have selected Sanju Samson as the second wicket-keeper and the opening option. Abhishek Sharma, let’s not talk about that because I feel he can be the top scorer in the World Cup.” Chopra said.
“If you’re wondering why Shubman Gill was picked, if you’ve appointed someone as vice-captain, you won’t turn so quickly. I’m not going to stick my neck out and say that Shubman will only be vice-captain. The team can leave the vice-captain spot open or just appoint Hardik Pandya to keep their options open.” added the former Indian cricketer.
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Tactical Strikes: Why Washington Is Hitting Sundar Rinku Singh
In a move that sparked considerable debate among her fans, Chopra made the choice Washington Sundar on a specialized finisher Rinku Singh 15 for the final spot. He argued that the current philosophy of the team management favors utility over specialization, especially on subcontinental pitches where extra bowling options are important.
Chopra explained. He noted that while Rinku’s batting ability is elite, Sundar’s ability to bat on the power play and provide left-handed batting depth at number eight offers more tactical maneuvers. This helpful first approach is reflected in his midrange selections, here Tilak Varma and Shivam Dubey identified as “100 per cent locks” for his secondary bowling skills and ability to dismantle the spin in the middle.
“After that, one more wicketkeeper will be required. Minimum two wicketkeepers in the squad. So you have to keep Jitesh Sharma in the team. After that, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel and Shivam Dube. These all-rounders should be locked in. These three are 100 per cent part of the squad. Even if Sanju opens, you will have to play Jitesh as this team has started favoring Washington Sundar. I think taking Rinku or Washi is a toss up. The team feels like they can’t use Rinku at all, so they have to keep Washi.” cricketer turned commentator.
Bowling plan: Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana as game changers
Chopra’s bowling unit for the 2026 World Cup is built on the ‘non-negotiable’ trifecta of pace and mystery. Varun Chakraborty It is said to be the deadliest weapon of the tournament.
“Next, Jasprit Bumrah. Let’s not discuss. Why not waste time? Arshdeep Singh, let’s not discuss. Why not waste time? Then Varun Chakravarthy. There is no discussion. Why should we waste your time and mine? I feel Varun Chakravarthy can be the top wicket-taker in this tournament. After that you have to keep your team in Kuldeep. Only then there is one slot left. You can pick any fast bowler there. So Harshit Rana I’m keeping it there. It also offers a No. 8 batting option.” Chopra concluded.
Aakash Chopra’s 15-man India squad for T20 World Cup 2026:
- Openers: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson (WK)
- Average Order: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (WK)
- Comprehensive: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar
- Bowler: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana
