India’s preparation ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 They gathered momentum with Ayush Badoni and Priyansh Arya’s inclusion in the India A squad for a series of crucial warm-up matches. The move underscores the team management’s intention to closely evaluate emerging talent ahead of the global show, which begins on February 7.
Warm-up exercises are planned in Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru, India
India A will play two warm-up games as part of their World Cup preparations. They will face the United States of America in Navi Mumbai on February 2, followed by Namibia in Bangalore on February 6. These matches are designed to give valuable exposure to outside players while also helping the senior team fine-tune their lineups ahead of the tournament.
The warm-ups will serve as an audition window for youngsters hoping to stake their claim for future international opportunities, especially in the shortest format.
Ayush Badoni continues his steady rise in Indian cricket
Badoni’s selection comes on the back of consistent performances across formats. The right-handed batsman has previously represented India A in four-day events and List A cricket, earning a reputation for composure and adaptability. Earlier this month, he earned his first senior India call-up for the ODI series against New Zealand, a clear indication that the selectors are keeping a close eye on his progress.
His inclusion in the India A team reflects the selectors’ confidence in his ability to handle high-pressure situations, especially as India look to strengthen their middle-order depth in white-ball cricket.
Priyansh Arya was awarded for his white ball performances
Priyansh Arya, on the other hand, continues his upward trajectory in the domestic circuit. Unlike Badoni, Arya’s exposure at ‘A’ level has so far been limited to white-ball formats. However, his aggressive approach and consistency in domestic T20 and List A competitions have earned him yet another opportunity to impress the national selectors.
The upcoming warm-up games could be pivotal for Arya as he looks to establish himself as a long-term prospect in India’s T20 plans.
Tilak Varma is set to make a comeback after injury
In a big boost to India’s World Cup preparations, Tilak Varma is expected to be ready for warm-up exercises after receiving permission from Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Center of Excellence. The Hyderabad batsman has been sidelined for nearly a month after undergoing surgery on an abdominal injury sustained during the Ranji Trophy.
The BCCI had earlier confirmed that Tilak had regained fitness and that his rehabilitation was making steady progress. His return will provide added stability to India at the top of the order.
Tilak is scheduled to join the squad in Mumbai on February 3. He will feature for India A in a warm-up game against the USA at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on February 2, before joining the senior India team for another warm-up game against South Africa at the same venue on February 4.
