T20 World Cup: Sanju Samson and Two Others to Sit Out; India’s Playing XI Confirmed After Warm-Up Win

India began their T20 World Cup preparations with a dominant 30-run victory over South Africa in their only warm-up match. Beyond the win, the match provided clarity on the team’s playing XI for the tournament.

Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan Form New Opening Pair
India’s biggest strength lies in their aggressive opening combination. Number one T20 batter Abhishek Sharma has been capitalizing on the powerplay with his explosive batting. Partnering him will be Ishan Kishan, who has edged out Sanju Samson. Kishan’s recent form has been exceptional—scoring a century against New Zealand and a blistering 53 off just 20 balls against South Africa in the warm-up match—securing his spot at the top of the order.

Solid Middle Order with Tilak, Surya, and Hardik
Number three will see Tilak Varma return to the side, adding depth and firepower. Captain Suryakumar Yadav (No. 4) anchors the innings with his 360-degree batting, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya (No. 5) and Shivam Dube will provide finishing power and a sixth bowling option. Rinku Singh, included as an ‘X-factor’ finisher, specializes in scoring quick runs in the final overs. Tilak Varma impressed in the warm-up match with 45 runs off 19 balls.

Spin Department: Axar and Varun Lead the Attack
On Indian pitches, the spin responsibilities will largely fall to Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy. Varun’s mystery spin has consistently troubled opposition batsmen. Managing both Varun and Kuldeep Yadav will be the captain’s key challenge. In most matches, Kuldeep may sit out, but he will play when the pitch offers assistance to spinners.

Pace Attack Anchored by Bumrah and Arshdeep
Jasprit Bumrah will lead India’s fast-bowling attack, supported by left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, who excels with the new ball and at the death. Arshdeep has been India’s leading wicket-taker in the last two World Cups. Harshit Rana will remain as a backup pacer.

India’s Confirmed T20 World Cup Playing XI:
Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah

With this lineup, India looks fully prepared to defend their title on home soil, combining explosive batting, versatile all-rounders, and a world-class bowling attack.