T20 World Cup 2026: 3 players who could star for India

The Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 was announced on December 20, and it featured a few surprising inclusions and exclusions that sparked debate among experts and fans alike. With the tournament set to be played at home, India will enter the competition as defending champions, carrying high expectations from the home crowd. While the squad looks strong on paper, a few individuals are expected to rise above the rest and play a decisive role. 

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Here are three players who could star for India in T20 World Cup 2026

Varun Chakravarthy

Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy could be one of

India’s biggest match-winners in the tournament. He has been highly effective in T20 cricket across conditions, troubling batters with his variations and pace variations. Chakravarthy has often been a game-changer during the middle overs, a phase where matches are frequently won or lost in the shortest format. His ability to apply pressure and pick up crucial wickets has made him a vital cog in India’s bowling attack.

In T20 internationals, he has claimed 55 wickets at an excellent average of 14.87 while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 6.96. Having risen through the ranks via strong IPL performances, Chakravarthy is now India’s frontline spinner in the shortest format. Indian pitches, which tend to assist spinners, are expected to suit him perfectly, making him a key weapon in the multi-nation tournament.

Suryakumar Yadav

India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav is another player who could shine on the biggest stage. Although he has gone through a lean patch recently, Suryakumar will be eager to rediscover his best form during the World Cup. Appointed captain after the 2024 T20 World Cup, his leadership has been impressive, with India winning all T20 series in recent years under his guidance.

He is known for his fearless approach, innovative stroke play, and has scored 2788 runs in T20 internationals at a strike rate exceeding 150. If he regains his rhythm, his trademark 360-degree batting can dismantle any bowling attack and set the tone for India’s success.

Hardik Pandya

All-rounder Hardik Pandya remains one of India’s most important players in T20 cricket. While injuries have interrupted his momentum at times, his impact has been immense whenever he plays. Pandya’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball provides balance and flexibility to the team.

He has amassed 2002 runs and taken 101 wickets in T20Is, underlining his value as a genuine match-winner. His experience, power-hitting, and seam-bowling skills will be crucial as India push for their third T20 World Cup title on home soil.