Will Team India miss Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli in T20 World Cup 2026?

An entire country had their eyes moist when Rohit Sharma and co. planted the Indian flag in Barbados. A June evening turned joyous for over a billion as after 2007, the Indian team clinched their second

T20 World Cup title.

The wound of November 19, 2023 was still a fresh one. And the Indian team had nothing but redemption in mind. The Rohit Sharma-led side had a flawless campaign, and then rose from the ruins to beat South Africa in the ultimate clash.

Fast forward to 2026, the cricketing world prepares for the T20 World Cup again, as India are the host this time along with Sri Lanka. A number of records are in the horizon for them, from being the first team to defend a T20 World Cup title to first team to win on home soil - the advertising agencies have plenty of enticing factors to leverage.

But a significant change awaits the Indian team. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two towering figures in Indian cricket, have retired from the T20I format after their triumphant 2024 campaign. Their departure marks the close of an era that spanned nearly two decades. Will their absence truly affect India's chances, or is the team poised to move forward seamlessly?

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli in T20 World Cup 2024 - A Regal Swansong

Let's look back at 2024, when India lifted the T20 World Cup in a thrilling final against South Africa in Barbados. Rohit Sharma, as captain, orchestrated that victory with calm authority and sharp tactics. His aggressive opening batting often set a strong platform, while his field placements and bowler rotations-especially with pace spearheads-kept opponents under pressure. In the final, even as tension mounted in the dressing room, his leadership kept the squad focused and composed through the chase.

Virat Kohli played a vital complementary role in the final. In the decisive match, his composed 76 off 59 balls steadied the innings after early setbacks, blending calculated aggression with resilience to help post a defendable total. His presence brought stability and mental strength to the group, turning potential wobbles into solid foundations.

Together, the duo's experience and big-match temperament helped end India's long ICC trophy drought, delivering a memorable triumph. Still, that hug at the Barbados dressing room steps remain vivid, a special visual capturing two gladiators of Indian cricket.

Suryakumar Yadav's India eyes Glory

As we look ahead to 2026, the baton has been passed to Suryakumar Yadav. Over the last 20 months since the last World Cup, head coach Gautam Gambhir and Surya have built a core, while a few names have also found their place due to sheer form. The bowling unit remains world-class, with proven performers who can lead the attack. All-rounders and finishers add versatility, and the core group has continuity from recent years.

Will India miss Rohit, Virat?

Now, in 2026, India enters the tournament without these icons for the first time in 18 years of T20 World Cups. The absence is felt most keenly in leadership and batting depth. Rohit's explosive starts and captaincy provided unmatched stability at the top; without him, the opening slot relies on younger players who must prove themselves on the global stage. Similarly, Kohli's ability to anchor and accelerate in the middle overs under pressure was unique-his knockouts often rebuilt innings when collapse loomed.

The impact extends beyond the field. The tournament may feel different without the star power that once drew massive crowds and global attention. Yet cricket will move forward as the next gen eye to stamp their authority.

Will their absence play a part? Undoubtedly, it brings challenges in experience, leadership, and aura. But India's talent pool runs deep, and this could spark a dynamic chapter. The 2026 World Cup might lack the familiar shine of past campaigns, yet it holds the promise of new heroes rising.

The game moves on. As the Ro-Ko duo remain forever in golden glitter, it beckons a new star to claim his rightful glory.