Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has expressed his happiness after earning a recall to the national setup, having been named in India’s 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. His selection follows an outstanding domestic season, where he played a pivotal role in guiding Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) title.
Speaking to ANI after the squad announcement, Kishan shared his joy and gratitude.
“I am very happy,” he said, reflecting on his return to the Indian team. He also acknowledged the collective effort behind Jharkhand’s historic triumph, adding, “I am also very happy for my domestic team, Jharkhand, on winning their first SMAT title. Everyone played really well.”
Kishan was the standout performer of the tournament, finishing as the highest run-scorer. He amassed 517 runs in 10 innings at an impressive average of 57.44, which included two centuries and two half-centuries. His memorable campaign was capped off with a century in the final against Haryana, underlining his consistency and match-winning ability.
This marks Kishan’s return to the Indian T20I setup after last featuring in a match against Australia in late 2023. Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar backed the decision during the selection press conference, highlighting the team’s strategic needs.
“He bats at the top in white-ball cricket and has been in very good form,” Agarkar said. “He has played for India before. With competition from players like Dhruv Jurel and Rishabh Pant, we felt that having a wicketkeeper who can open the batting adds more balance and solidity to the side.”
Alongside Kishan, Rinku Singh has also been included in the squad. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team as captain, with Axar Patel named vice-captain.
Notably, Shubman Gill, who previously served as vice-captain, has been left out of the squad. Gill was part of the recent T20I series against South Africa but missed the final two matches due to a foot injury. His 2025 T20I season saw him score 291 runs in 15 innings at an average of 24.25 and a strike rate of 137.26, without registering a half-century.
The selection reflects India’s focus on current form, flexibility at the top order, and depth ahead of the global tournament.
