Yuzvendra Chahal opted for Sanju Samson over Kishan, even though Samson has been struggling for runs. (Image credit: Agencies)

NEW DELHI: Despite enjoying a stellar run in the recently concluded T20I series against New Zealand, in-form left-hander Ishan Kishan failed to make it into spinner Yuzvendra Chahal’s preferred playing XI for India’s T20 World Cup opener against the United States on Saturday.Chahal opted for Sanju Samson over Kishan, even though Samson has been struggling for runs. Samson was picked to open alongside Abhishek Sharma, replacing Kishan at the top of the order.

The New Zealand T20I series had presented Samson with a chance to cement his spot after returning to the opening role following a three-month gap. However, he managed just 46 runs at an average of 9.20. Kishan, in contrast, amassed 215 runs at an impressive average of 53.75 and a strike rate of 231.18, highlighted by a century in the fifth T20I.Reigning champions India will head into the T20 World Cup as strong favourites on home soil.Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India open their campaign against the United States at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.On paper, India look well placed to defend their title. Since lifting the 2024 T20 World Cup after defeating South Africa in the final, they have won 33 of their 41 T20Is, losing just six.Their recent 4–1 home series victory over New Zealand further showcased the team’s depth and adaptability in familiar conditions.Chahal’s preferred playing 11: Abhisehk Sharma, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku singh, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

India squad for 2026 T20 World Cup 2026

Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh