The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday announced a 15-member Indian women’s squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin on June 12 in England and Wales. Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the side, continuing her leadership after guiding India to a historic ODI World Cup triumph last year, while Smriti Mandhana has been named vice-captain for the global tournament. The squad selection also includes a major highlight with the inclusion of several young and emerging talents alongside experienced campaigners.
One of the biggest talking points in the squad is the maiden national call-up for uncapped pacer Nandani Sharma, who earned her place after an impressive breakout season in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026. Born on September 20, 2001, in Chandigarh, Nandani represented Delhi Capitals in 10 matches and was picked up for ₹20 lakh in the auction. She made a strong impact by claiming 17 wickets in the season, including a five-wicket haul and a hat-trick, becoming the first Indian bowler to achieve both feats in a single WPL edition.
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The squad also features a strong core of established players including Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, Deepti Sharma, and Renuka Singh, forming the backbone of India’s batting and bowling units. However, the selectors had to deal with a few setbacks as Kashvee Gautam and Amanjot Kaur were ruled out due to injuries, while Pratika Rawal did not find a place in the final squad. The team reflects a balanced mix of experience and youth as India prepares for a challenging global campaign.
Before heading into the World Cup, the Indian team will also participate in a three-match T20I series against hosts England starting May 28, serving as a key preparation phase. The series will provide crucial match practice and help finalise combinations ahead of the marquee tournament. With rising talents like Nandani Sharma joining a strong core of senior players, India will aim to build momentum and mount a serious challenge for the Women’s T20 World Cup.
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