India Women Name T20 World Cup 2026 Squad
Harmanpreet Leads 15-Member Squad With Key Returns
India have officially announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to take place in England from June 12 to July 5. The tournament will conclude with the final at Lord’s, one of cricket’s most iconic venues. The squad was confirmed by the BCCI Women’s Selection Committee, with Harmanpreet Kaur continuing to lead the side and Smriti Mandhana named as vice-captain.
The squad features a strong mix of experience and emerging talent. The full list includes Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, Shree Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Nandani Sharma, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh, Kranti Gaud, Shreyanka Patil and Radha Yadav.
Two of the most notable inclusions are Radha Yadav and Yastika Bhatia, both returning to the squad at a crucial stage. Their presence adds depth and balance as India prepare for a highly competitive global tournament.
Radha Yadav Strengthens Spin Attack
Radha Yadav’s return is a major boost for India’s bowling unit. One of the most experienced T20 bowlers in the squad, Radha has taken 103 wickets in 89 T20 internationals. Her ability to control the middle overs and pick up crucial wickets makes her a valuable asset, especially in English conditions where variation can play a key role.
This will be Radha’s fifth T20 World Cup appearance, bringing a wealth of experience to the squad. Alongside Deepti Sharma, Shree Charani and Shreyanka Patil, she forms part of a well-rounded spin attack that can adapt to different match situations. Her comeback also provides leadership within the bowling group, something that becomes increasingly important in high-pressure matches.
Yastika Bhatia’s Comeback Story
Yastika Bhatia’s inclusion is one of the most inspiring aspects of this squad announcement. The wicketkeeper-batter has made a successful return after a long injury layoff. She last featured for India A during the Australia tour in August 2025 before undergoing ACL surgery in October.
After months of rehabilitation and hard work, Bhatia has regained fitness in time for selection. In her 18 T20 internationals, she has shown composure and technical reliability at the crease. Her return adds depth to India’s batting lineup and gives the team another dependable option behind the stumps.
New Faces Get Their Opportunity
The squad also includes several players who will be making their T20 World Cup debut. Bharti Fulmali, Nandani Sharma, Shree Charani and Kranti Gaud have all earned their places through consistent performances in domestic and franchise cricket.
Fulmali impressed during the recent South Africa series and has retained her spot. Nandani Sharma’s rise has been particularly noteworthy, as she earned her call-up after a standout Women’s Premier League season where she picked up 17 wickets. Her performances for Delhi Capitals highlighted her ability to perform under pressure, and she now gets a chance to showcase her skills on the world stage.
These new inclusions reflect India’s intent to build a squad that balances youth and experience while preparing for the future.
Notable Absentees and Selection Calls
While the squad looks strong, there are a few notable absentees. Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam were unavailable due to injuries, which ruled them out of contention. Harleen Deol and Sneh Rana also missed out as the selectors finalized the 15-member group.
Such decisions highlight the depth in Indian women’s cricket, where competition for places continues to grow. The selection panel appears to have focused on current form, fitness and team balance while making their choices.
Group Stage Fixtures and Key Matches
India have been placed in Group 1 alongside Australia, South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Netherlands. The campaign begins on June 14 against Pakistan in Birmingham, a fixture that always carries extra intensity and fan interest.
The group stage also includes important matches against the Netherlands, South Africa and Bangladesh. However, the clash against Australia on June 28 at Lord’s is expected to be one of the defining games of the group stage, given Australia’s strong track record in T20 World Cups.
Before the tournament begins, India will play a three-match T20 series against England from May 28 to June 2. This series will serve as crucial preparation and help the team adjust to local conditions.
India Aim for T20 Glory
India enter the tournament with confidence, having won the ODI World Cup in 2025. While their best result in the T20 format remains a runner-up finish in 2020, expectations are high for a strong campaign in 2026.
With a balanced squad, experienced leadership and emerging talent, India will be aiming to go one step further and secure their first T20 World Cup title. The upcoming tournament in England presents a major opportunity for the team to make history and continue their upward trajectory in world cricket.
Written by 8jjsports.com | May 3, 2026
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