The countdown to the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 has officially begun, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the squad that will carry the nation's hopes. Set to be hosted across England and Wales from June 12 to July 5, this tournament marks another golden opportunity for India to add a World Cup trophy to their cabinet—especially after their historic ODI World Cup triumph on home soil last year.
At the helm once again is the experienced Harmanpreet Kaur, who will lead a side brimming with both seasoned campaigners and exciting young talent. The squad is packed with match-winners, including vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, the dynamic Jemimah Rodrigues, and the ever-reliable Deepti Sharma. Fans will also be thrilled to see the return of key players like Shafali Verma, Richa Ghosh, and Renuka Singh Thakur, all of whom will be crucial in the team's quest for glory.
India's journey to the World Cup has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. They kicked off the year with a bang, defeating Australia 2-1 in a thrilling series Down Under—a statement win that showcased their growing prowess. However, their most recent assignment against South Africa ended in a disappointing 4-1 series loss, serving as a stark reminder of the work ahead. To fine-tune their preparations, India will face England in a three-match T20I series in June, just before the World Cup begins—a perfect opportunity to build momentum.
History adds an extra layer of motivation for this squad. India have never won a Women's T20 World Cup, but they came agonizingly close in 2020, reaching the final before falling to Australia. With a blend of youthful exuberance and veteran experience, this team is determined to go one step further and bring the trophy home.
Here is the full 15-member squad for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Shree Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Nandini Sharma, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, Kranti Gaud, Shreyanka Patil, Radha Yadav.
As the Women in Blue gear up for another shot at World Cup glory, the excitement is palpable. Will this be the year they finally lift the T20 trophy? All eyes are on England and Wales this summer.