Yuzvendra Chahal Picks Samson, Tilak in India XI for T20 World Cup Opener

India spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has named his preferred playing XI for India’s opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 against the United States, leaving out in-form wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan in a move that has sparked debate.

Chahal revealed his selection in a video shared by broadcaster Star Sports, backing Sanju Samson to open the innings alongside Abhishek Sharma despite Samson’s modest returns in the recent five-match T20I series against New Zealand. Kishan, who enjoyed a strong run of form in that series, did not find a place in Chahal’s combination.

Chahal showed confidence in Tilak Varma, naming the left-hander at No. 3 as he returns from injury. Tilak has enjoyed considerable success in that position in the past and is expected to play a key role in the middle order. India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav was slotted at No. 4, followed by Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Rinku Singh, forming a power-packed middle order and finishing unit.

Also Read: ICC Warns: Pakistan Risks Lawsuit and Revenue Loss For Skipping India Game

In the bowling department, Chahal opted for a balanced attack featuring two spinners and two specialist fast bowlers. Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy were picked as the spin options, while Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh were chosen to lead the pace attack. The selection meant that Kuldeep Yadav missed out, having featured in only five T20I matches since the 2025 Asia Cup final.

India, the defending champions, has been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, the United States, the Netherlands, and Namibia. The tournament opener against the USA will be played at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday, with India aiming to become the first team to successfully defend a Men’s T20 World Cup title, win the tournament on home soil, and lift the trophy for a third time.

Chahal’s suggested playing XI includes Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson as wicketkeeper, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav as captain, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, and Jasprit Bumrah.

Also Read: "Like Beating Minnows": Manjrekar's Blunt Take as Pakistan Boycotts India Match in T20 WC