India T20 World Cup Squad Finalized; Warm-ups Test Player Roles

India's captain Harmanpreet Kaur will use two warm-up matches to finalize team strategies for the T20 World Cup. This follows a recent T20I series loss to England.
By Newsroom | Sports, Cricket |

Captain Kaur Eyes Maiden Title, Reflects on Preparations

Harmanpreet Kaur, India's captain, has indicated that the core of the team for the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup is settled. She plans to utilize the two scheduled warm-up matches to explore a few more strategic arrangements and offer opportunities to players like Radha Yadav and Bharti Fulmali.

We are pretty clear about our T20 World Cup XI, will use warm-ups to fine-tune plans: Harmanpreet - 1

The team's build-up to the tournament, aimed at securing a first-ever T20 World Cup title, experienced a minor disruption following a 2-1 T20I series loss to hosts England. Kaur herself has adjusted her batting position, moving from her usual No. 4 to No. 5. The warm-up fixtures against West Indies on June 8 and England on June 10 are seen as crucial for solidifying plans and making final adjustments before the main event.

We are pretty clear about our T20 World Cup XI, will use warm-ups to fine-tune plans: Harmanpreet - 2

Shift in Batting Order and Player Opportunities

Kaur acknowledged the performance of players like Fulmali, noting her strong showing in the Women's Premier League (WPL) and her readiness. The decision to drop Kaur to No. 5 suggests a strategic move to balance the middle order.

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We are pretty clear about our T20 World Cup XI, will use warm-ups to fine-tune plans: Harmanpreet - 3

Broader Context of Preparation

This phase of preparation follows a series against South Africa, which was also highlighted by captain Kaur as important for building momentum and confidence, particularly after the team's ODI World Cup triumph. Kaur, who has previously been honored with the Padma Shri for leading India to the ODI World Cup title, will be participating in her 10th T20 World Cup and captaining the side for the fifth consecutive time. The team's recent performance against England, while a setback, underscores the fine margins and competitive nature of international T20 cricket as they aim to leverage these experiences for the global tournament.

We are pretty clear about our T20 World Cup XI, will use warm-ups to fine-tune plans: Harmanpreet - 4

Recent Squad Announcements for Warm-ups

Separately, an India A squad was announced for official warm-up games leading up to the T20 World Cup 2026. This selection featured players like Tilak Varma, returning to competitive action, and fast bowler Mayank Yadav, who is making a comeback after an injury. These fixtures, involving India A against the USA and Namibia, are designed to provide match time for fringe and returning players ahead of the tournament's commencement.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is in the India squad for the T20 World Cup?
India's T20 World Cup squad has been finalized. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur plans to use warm-up matches to test player combinations and strategies.
Q: When are India's T20 World Cup warm-up games?
India will play warm-up matches against the West Indies on June 8 and against England on June 10. These games are important for final adjustments before the main tournament.
Q: Why did Captain Harmanpreet Kaur change her batting position?
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur has moved from batting at number 4 to number 5. This is a strategic decision to balance the middle order of the team.
Q: What is the goal for India in the T20 World Cup?
The team's main goal is to win their first-ever T20 World Cup title. They are using preparation matches to build momentum and confidence.
Q: What other warm-up games are happening for India?
An India A squad will also play warm-up games against the USA and Namibia. This is to give match practice to fringe players and those returning from injury.