Gill misses out as Kishan returns in India’s T20 World Cup squad

WEB DESK: India have named a 15-member squad for their home ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title defence, leaving out Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill while bringing back wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan.

The selectors opted against Gill after a prolonged lean run in the shortest format, where he has failed to score a half-century in his last 18 T20I innings. Gill also missed India’s most recent match against South Africa due to a foot injury, a factor that further complicated his case for selection.

In Gill’s absence, Sanju Samson has made a strong impression. Handed limited chances at the top of the order, Samson struck a fluent 37 in Ahmedabad while opening alongside Abhishek Sharma, strengthening his claim for a regular role.

Kishan’s return follows a standout domestic season. He captained Jharkhand to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, underlining his form with a century in the final against Haryana. His performances convinced selectors to restore him to the national side ahead of the global tournament.

The same squad will also feature in a five-match home T20I series against New Zealand next month, providing a final opportunity to fine-tune combinations before the World Cup.

India’s bowling attack will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, supported by left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh. Spin responsibilities fall to Varun Chakaravarthy, with additional options including Kuldeep Yadav.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to be central to India’s campaign, providing balance with both bat and ball. The tournament will run from February 7 to March 8 across venues in India and Sri Lanka, where India will aim to successfully defend their title.

India squad: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan (wk).