The much awaited T20I series between India and Ireland begins today and marks the beginning of a new chapter for both the teams under new management. Goalkeeper-prone Lorcan Tucker Ireland will lead India if he takes over Shreyas Iyer in a three-match series. The competition also brings added excitement with the teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi is expected to feature prominently once he earns a place in the squad. As fans eagerly await the opening clash, former Indian cricketer Muhammad Kaif shared his preferred playing XI for the first T20I, making some bold selection calls.
Mohammad Kaif reveals India XI for first T20I
Kaif entrusted him with the responsibility of opening Sanju Samson and young batting prodigy Suryavanshi. The move reflects Kaif’s confidence in the teenager’s fearless approach, which created significant buzz before the series.
Instead of preaching Abhishek Sharma As an opener, Kaif placed the left-hander at No. 3, allowing him to play the attacker once pitch restrictions eased. Captain Shreyas Iyer occupies the No. 4 position, followed by Tilak Varma and Shivam DubeyGives India a balanced middle order that can accelerate against both pace and spin.
Akhar Patel Picked as a No. 7 all-rounder, providing depth with both bat and ball. Includes bowling attack Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna and leg spinner Ravi BishnoiGives India a combination of pace, bounce and wicket-taking spin options.
Mohammad Kaif’s India XI for the first game: Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna and Ravi Bishnoi.
Also READ: Saba Karim picks India XI for first T20I against England; No place for Vaibhav Suryavanshi
Ishan Kishi’s release sparks debate
One of the most talked about aspects of Kaif’s choice is her absence Ishan Kishi. While the former India off-spinner has shown faith in young Suryavanshi by giving him an opening berth, Kisha’s inaction may have caused a split among fans and pundits alike.
Kishan has become a permanent member of India’s T20I setup in recent months and has been instrumental in the team’s victorious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. His aggressive batting at the top of the order and his ability to change pace quickly made him one of India’s premier white-ball players.
Despite these credentials, Kaif has opted to keep Sanju Samson behind the stumps, completely ignoring Kishan. The decision highlights the intense competition for places in India’s batting line-up, especially with several young players trying to get regular opportunities.
