Picking the best XI of all time in T20 cricket is one of the toughest exercises for any player or professional. The format has evolved rapidly over the past two decades, with different eras producing different types of match winners. Some players dominated the powerplays, while others thrived in finishing roles, while the bowlers adapted with variations, arcane spin and accurate death bowling. Add the global spread of leagues like IPL, Big Bash Leagueand other franchise tournaments and the problem becomes more complex. Every list inevitably sparks debate, especially when legendary names are left out.
Australian leg spinner in this background Adam Zampa It recently revealed the best T20 XI of all time – but with a clear caveat. Zampa chose the side only from players he shared the field with during his career. The squad unveiled on the Willow Talk Cricket podcast ahead of the IPL 2026 season is full of superstars, but one omission has surprised fans in the cricketing world.
Adam Zampa reveals his best T20 XI of all time
Zampa’s selected XI reflects his experience in international cricket and global T20 leagues. The team includes explosive batsmen, versatile all-rounders and a well-balanced bowling attack that can handle high-pressure situations.
This combination highlights Zampa’s preference for strength, adaptability and proven match-winners – players who can change the game within a few games.
Dynamic openers
At the top of the order, Zampa went with two contrasting but equally iconic openers. Chris Gaylethe original T20 destroyer, bringing unparalleled power and fear. Gayle’s ability to dominate bowlers from the first ball defined his T20 batting and made him an automatic choice in the All-Time XI.
Be a partner to him Virat Kohliits consistency and adaptability set it apart. While Gayle provides the brute power, Kohli offers stability, strike spin and the ability to accelerate at will. Together they form a balanced opening pair capable of setting up or chasing down any target.
Solid middle order
The mid-range combines talent, innovation and reliability. Kevin Pietersen Acts as an aggressive yet technically sound batsman who thrives against both pace and spin in the shortest format. Goalkeeper-prone Josh English adds flexibility, athleticism and fearless batting, qualities highly valued in modern T20 cricket.
It is to complete the three AB de Villiersregarded as one of the greatest T20 batters ever. His ability to innovate, adapt to any situation and finish games makes him Zampa’s middle-order lynchpin.
All-round stars
Zampa’s XI is powered by elite all-rounders who offer impact in various aspects. Glenn Maxwell provides an explosive shot, off-spin options and an exceptional field.
Next to him Andre RussellOne of the most feared finishers in T20 history. Russell’s power hitting and lethal bowling make him a single match winner. The mysterious spinner Sunil Narine It completes an all-round trio that offers economical bowling and useful lower-order batting in the Powerplay.
Spinning bowling attack
The bowling section is a mix of pace, control and variation. Nathan Ellis brings deadly slow balls and yorkers at the death. Samuel Badree while the new ball adds precision and control Josh Hazlewood provides leap, discipline and great temperament.
Also READ: Venkatesh Iyer reveals all-time T20 playing XI ahead of IPL 2026; No place for Virat Kohli
No place raises eyebrows for MS Dhoni
The most talked about aspect of Zampa’s XI is his absence MS Dhoni. Given Dhoni’s legendary T20 resume – multiple IPL titles, countless match wins and his quiet leadership – the omission is surprising. Dhoni holds a record that very few can match. His impact in high-pressure chases and his tactical prowess behind the stumps have long made him central to discussions surrounding the greatest T20 players of all time.
Zampa’s selection criteria were clear: he only selected players he personally played with. However, the Australian leg-spinner really played against the former Indian captain. Zampa made his international debut for Australia in early 2016, at a time when Dhoni was still an active cricketer and India’s limited-overs captain.
Adam Zampa’s best T20 XI of all time (from players he played with):
Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, Kevin Pietersen, Josh Inglis, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Nathan Ellis, Samuel Badree, Josh Hazlewood.
Also READ: Amit Mishra opens up on the rumors claiming that MS Dhoni has hampered his career
