Published: Dec 03, 2025, 05:43 PM (IST)
Edited: Dec 03, 2025, 06:17 PM (IST)
India have fired the first shot of their T20 World Cup title defense by declaring a 15-member squad for the five-match T20I series against South Africa, commencing December 9 in Cuttack. With a home World Cup to defend in February–March 2026 between India and Sri Lanka, this is not just another bilateral assignment – it’s about how India wants their champions to develop before the circus begins.
The selectors, who met in Raipur on Wednesday evening, expectedly stuck with Suryakumar Yadav as captain. However, it was the return of Shubman Gill as the vice-captain that was one of the big talking points of the squad.
The T20Is in Cuttack, Mullanpur, Dharamsala, Lucknow and Ahmedabad will now act as India’s final major look at combinations.
India’s top-order has a recognizable structure. Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill will be seen beginning the innings for the squad, with Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav remaining as the flexible options at number three and four.
The most crucial tick is the return of Hardik Pandya, who slides back in as seam-bowling all-rounder after completing his rehab and return-to-play process at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. His presence instantly lengthens India’s batting and stabilizes the bowling.
Sanju Samson remains India’s first-choice wicketkeeper in the format, but the presence of Jitesh Sharma keeps pressure on that slot. Shivam Dube continues to be the team’s additional bowling option and spin enforcer.
India keeps their selections consistent while with the ball. Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav cover both control and strike options in the middle, while Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana provide contrast. Jasprit Bumrah leads the assault.
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar
