The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a 15-player squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7. Notably, the selectors also revealed that the same group will play in the five-match home T20I series against New Zealand beginning on January 21.

Suryakumar Yadav will lead the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup, with Axar Patel taking over as vice-captain after Shubman Gill was left out. As reigning champions from the 2024 edition, India have backed continuity by retaining most players who featured in recent T20I series against Australia and South Africa.

One player who is set to define India’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign is Hardik Pandya. The all-rounder will be India’s go-to match-winner. His ability to score runs quickly and take wickets in all phases of the game makes him the most decisive weapon in India’s title defence.

Hardik Pandya Set to Be a Key Player for India at T20 World Cup 2026

Hardik Pandya is expected to be one of India’s most important players at the T20 World Cup 2026. India are likely to back him in every match because of his ability to change games with both bat and ball.

With the ball, Hardik has taken 101 wickets in 112 innings at an average of 26.92 and an economy rate of 8.29. His ability to bowl at different stages of the innings gives India flexibility, especially in tight situations.

With the bat, Hardik has scored 2002 runs in 97 T20I innings at an average of 28.60 and a strike rate of 143.51, including seven half-centuries. His quick scoring in the middle and death overs helps India finish the innings strongly.

Hardik Pandya Shines as Match-Winner Against South Africa

Hardik Pandya played a decisive role in India’s T20I series win against South Africa. In the final match, he helped India post a total of 231/5. He smashed 63 runs from just 25 balls and earned the Player of the Match award. Notably, he reached his fifty in only 16 deliveries.

Earlier in the series, Hardik also scored an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls in the opening T20I, helping India recover and push towards a winning position. He scored 142 runs across three innings at a strike rate close to 187, with two half-centuries, and also contributed with the ball by taking three wickets.

Overall, the series highlighted Hardik’s value as a match-winner. His ability to finish innings with explosive hitting and chip in with wickets played a key part in India sealing the series.

Hardik Pandya’s Return Boosts India Ahead of T20 World Cup

Hardik Pandya made a strong comeback after recovering from his Asia Cup injury. He looked sharp with the bat, striking the ball cleanly, and his bowling showed improved pace and rhythm.

His return has strengthened the team in a big way, giving India extra depth, power, and flexibility. With Pandya back in form, India regain a proven match-winner who can make a major impact as they build toward the T20 World Cup.

In World Cups, Hardik has scored 357 runs across 24 matches at a strike rate of 142.23, with a top score of 63. With the ball, he has taken 24 wickets at an average of 21.66. India will expect him to deliver in the biggest moments, especially in knockout matches.