Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has unveiled his predicted 15-member squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka. Chopra's selection reflects a strategic shift toward multi-skilled utility players and the inclusion of mystery spin options.
His squad is heavily influenced by recent performances in the South Africa T20I series. While the core group from the 2024 T20 setup remains intact, Chopra's analysis points to notable changes in leadership dynamics and the finisher roles that have long shaped India's T20 identity.
A key talking point in Chopra's assessment is the uncertainty surrounding the vice-captaincy, currently held by Shubman Gill. Although Gill features in the squad as a specialist opener, Chopra questioned his long-term suitability for a leadership role, citing recent fitness concerns and a decline in his T20I strike rate. He suggested that the selectors could consider reinstating Hardik Pandya as vice-captain, serving as deputy to Suryakumar Yadav.
