New Delhi buzzes with cricket excitement as left-handed batter Tilak Varma gears up for the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Before joining the main Indian squad, the 23-year-old will sharpen his skills in warm-up matches with India A. The team kicks off against USA on Monday, followed by a clash with Namibia on Friday. India’s official campaign launches on February 7.
Varma’s journey back to the field has been remarkable. Earlier this month, he underwent lower abdominal surgery in Rajkot and completed rehabilitation at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. His inclusion comes after a successful simulation match at the COE last Friday. Initially eyed for India’s last two T20s against New Zealand, selectors prioritized his World Cup readiness.
Leading India A is batting allrounder Ayush Badoni. The squad boasts experienced names like Riyan Parag, Ravi Bishnoi, Khaleel Ahmed, and Mayank Yadav, all with international caps. Emerging talents such as Naman Dhir, Ashutosh Sharma, Priyansh Arya, Gurjapneet Singh, Vipraj Nigam, Manav Suthar, and Ashok Sharma round out the side. Wicketkeeping duties fall to N Jagadeesan and Urvil Patel.
These matches mark pivotal moments. Mayank Yadav returns to competitive cricket after a stress fracture in his lower back sidelined him from IPL 2025 with Lucknow Super Giants. His surgery took place last year in Christchurch, New Zealand. Riyan Parag also rejoins after recovering from a right shoulder injury at the COE.
Coaching the side are M Venkata Ramana as head coach, Vineet Saxena handling batting, and Avinash Khandelwal on fielding. India A’s full squad: Ayush Badoni (capt), Naman Dhir, Ashutosh Sharma, Priyansh Arya, N Jagadeesan (wk), Tilak Varma, Riyan Parag, Manav Suthar, Ashok Sharma, Urvil Patel (wk), Gurjapneet Singh, Vipraj Nigam, Ravi Bishnoi, Khaleel Ahmed, Mayank Yadav.
As preparations intensify, fans eagerly watch these warm-ups, signaling India’s strong stride into the T20 World Cup.