The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 With several powerhouses entering the tournament as genuine title contenders, it is expected to be one of the most hotly contested global events in recent memory. As the shortest format continues to evolve rapidly, teams are stacked with fearless batsmen, versatile all-rounders and specialist bowlers capable of turning games around in minutes. As a result, fans all over the world are gearing up for a contest full of thrillers, thin margins and highlights like the previous edition.
Amid growing excitement, former Zimbabwean cricketer and respected commentator Pommie Mbangwa has thrown his weight behind the clear favorite, backing the world champions to repeat their title-winning glory.
Pommie Mbangwa picks the winner of the T20 World Cup 2026
Talking about the former captain of South Africa AB de Villiers“YouTube channel, Mbangwa admitted that he is very prone to it India When asked to pick a potential winner for the 2026 edition. According to him, India’s strength lies in its depth across all departments, making them a formidable unit in pressure situations.
“I’m tempted to say India. They are very strong in all performances.” Mbangwa said highlighting how India ticks all the boxes in modern T20 cricket.
pointed to the final form of Suryakumar Yadavpopularly known as SKY, regained his contacts and also praised his explosive rise. Abhishek Sharmanoted that the young switch ‘couldn’t stop scoring’ and was consistently ‘crushing them’ up top.
“I mean, I’ve seen Sky (Suryakumar Yadav) score a few runs recently. I’ve seen that Abhishek can’t keep hitting them. He’s smashing them.” Mbangwa added.
Mbangwa further highlighted India’s bowling firepower, calling it jasprit bumrah As a game changer and mystery spinner with balls Varun Chakraborty as another X-factor capable of dismantling batting lineups in big situations.
“They got Bumrah (Jasprit Bumrah). They got Chakravarthy (Varun Chakravarthy).” Added more.
Also READ: Aakash Chopra outlines probable XI for South Africa’s T20 World Cup 2026
Why world champions can repeat history
India entering the 2026 tournament as the defending champions strengthens their case. The core that won the title in 2024 remains largely intact, with several players maturing further, adding experience and tactical awareness to their natural abilities. Along with Abhishek and Suryakumar, his presence Sanju Samson while it offers stability and aggression in the middle order Hardik Pandya continues to be decisive with both bat and ball, especially in high-pressure knockout matches.
It is further strengthened by all-rounders like India’s balance Akhar Patelcontrol and finishing ability providing flexibility and keeper-fruit selection Ishan Kishiwho can change the tempo of the game within a few overs. With Bumrah leading the pace attack and Varun providing the mystery in the middle, India boast a bowling unit that can adapt to a variety of conditions.
Also READ: Jacques Kallis explains why South Africa have a real chance of winning the 2026 T20 World Cup
