In a major announcement on Saturday, chief selector Ajit Agarkar unveiled the Indian cricket team's squads for the upcoming T20 World Cup and the preceding five-match T20I series against New Zealand. The selection marks the final step in India's preparation for the global tournament.
Squads Revealed for World Cup and New Zealand Series
The five-match T20I series against New Zealand will kick off on January 21 in Nagpur. This series is crucial as it represents India's final competitive outing in the format before the T20 World Cup, scheduled from February 7 to March 8. The squads for both assignments are identical, indicating the selectors' clear vision for the marquee event.
The full squads are as follows:
- Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
- Tilak Varma
- Hardik Pandya
- Shivam Dube
- Axar Patel
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Rinku Singh
- Harshit Rana
- Arshdeep Singh
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Washington Sundar
- Ishan Kishan
Captaincy and Selection Decisions Under Spotlight
In a significant decision, the selectors have placed their faith in Suryakumar Yadav to lead the side in the World Cup. This comes despite the star batter enduring a lean patch in the recently concluded T20I series against South Africa, which India won 3-1. In 20 matches and 18 innings this year, Suryakumar has managed 213 runs at an average of 14.20, with a strike rate just over 125, and without a single half-century.
The inclusion of Ishan Kishan also draws attention, ending speculation about his place in the squad. His selection comes despite ongoing debates about his recent form and opportunities.
World Cup Group and Opening Fixture
India has been placed in Group A for the T20 World Cup. Their opponents will be Namibia, the Netherlands, Pakistan, and the United States. The host nation will begin its World Cup campaign against the USA on February 7 in Mumbai, setting the stage for a highly anticipated tournament on home soil.
The announcement sets clear expectations for the team, with the New Zealand series serving as a vital dress rehearsal. All eyes will now be on Nagpur on January 21 as the chosen fifteen begin their final push for World Cup glory.
