India Reveals Squad for 2026 T20 World Cup Warm-Up Matches
The Indian cricket team is gearing up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 by announcing the squad for the warm-up matches. With the main tournament set to kick off on February 7, 2026, India is taking a strategic approach to build depth in their squad.
India A Squad for T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-Up Matches
The India A team features a mix of promising talent and experienced players. The aim is to assess the readiness of reserve options while protecting key players. Here is the full squad:
- Captain: Ayush Badoni
- Vice-Captain: Manav Suthar
- Batters: Tilak Varma, Riyan Parag, Priyansh Arya, Naman Dhir
- Wicketkeepers: N Jagadeesan, Urvil Patel
- All-Rounders: Ashutosh Sharma, Manav Suthar
- Spinners: Ravi Bishnoi, Vipraj Nigam
- Fast Bowlers: Khaleel Ahmed, Mayank Yadav, Gurjapneet Singh, Ashok Sharma
The squad’s balance aims to maximize match exposure for young cricketers and maintain the fitness of senior players.
Reasons for India A’s Warm-Up Matches
India’s strategy involves a unique approach to preparing for the World Cup:
- The main squad will only play one warm-up match, while India A will compete in two.
- This allows for better workload management and injury prevention.
- It offers the reserve players valuable real-match experience.
Such preparation ensures that India remains fresh and flexible during the tournament.
Schedule of Warm-Up Matches
The T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up matches are scheduled as follows:
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 2, 2026 | India A vs USA | DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai | 5:00 PM |
| February 6, 2026 | India A vs Namibia | BCCI Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru | 5:00 PM |
These matches serve as a platform for players to showcase their skills under pressure, paving the way for selections in the main squad.
Key Focus on Tilak Varma
A significant storyline is the return of Tilak Varma. After undergoing surgery, he has been cleared to play:
- Expected to participate in both warm-up matches.
- A crucial middle-order option as India eyes a solid setup.
- These games are essential for him to rebuild rhythm and confidence.
Conclusion
The warm-up matches are not just preparation for the World Cup; they are a strategic move by the Indian team management. By focusing on younger talent while keeping senior players rested, India aims to create a depth that is essential for success in long tournaments. As the World Cup draws near, fans are eager to see how these players perform and what opportunities may arise from these initial matches.
