3 underrated players to watch out for in T20 World Cup 2026

The 2026 T20 World Cup is set to begin on February 7. It has always been a tournament where reputation guarantees nothing, as short games, high pressure, and rapidly shifting momentum often create a space where unfamiliar or lightly discussed players end up defining entire campaigns. 

As the T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, several players arrive without the weight of hype but with skill sets perfectly suited to the demands of modern T20 cricket. Their value lies in adaptability, clarity of role, and the ability to perform when conditions or situations arise . 

Here is a list of 3 underrated players at T20 World Cup 2026: 

Tim David

Tim David is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous finishers in world cricket at present, and heading into the T20 World Cup, he is expected to carry significant responsibility alongside senior figures like Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis. David arguably offers Australia their most reliable late-innings firepower.

His game is built around clean, uncompromising power rather than improvisation; he prefers hitting straight and down the ground and can clear boundaries at will. His game against spin has improved significantly. On subcontinent pitches, where smaller boundaries and true surfaces reward such strengths, David is likely to be particularly effective.

The numbers reinforce his growing importance. In 58 T20I innings, he has scored 1,596 runs at an average above 36 and a strike rate of 168.22, while his 2025 returns have been outstanding: 395 runs in 10 innings at an average of 49.37 and a strike rate of 197.20. His experience in the IPL, including a prolific campaign with RCB last season, gives him valuable familiarity with Indian conditions, which could prove crucial in the latter stages of the tournament.

Beyond his batting, David is also a top-class outfielder, covering ground with ease and offering exceptional catching ability, further strengthening his value as a complete T20 cricketer.