5 big players not picked for T20 World Cup 2026

With most teams finalising their squads, the build-up to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 has witnessed a few surprise omissions. With most team announcing their line-ups for the tournament, to be held across India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, several big-name players have been left out. Selection calls have largely been around recent form, team balance, fitness concerns, and combinations suited to subcontinental conditions.

In some cases, experienced players have missed out due to inconsistent performances. While a few players enjoying strong domestic or franchise form have also been overlooked. These absences have triggered debate among fans and experts alike about the tough choices selectors made.

Here are the 5 big players not picked for T20 World Cup 2026 squads

5. Ottneil Baartman

Despite being the most consistent fast bowler in the SA20, right-arm pacer Ottneil Baartman found himself overlooked for South Africa’s T20 World Cup squad. Baartman is the SA20’s all-time leading wicket-taker and once again topped the charts in the recently-concluded season, yet he missed out, even as South Africa have been suffering with a few injury concerns.

Baartman, who was part of the Proteas’ T20I setup in India recently and finished as one of their leading wicket-takers there, revealed that no clear communication was made to him regarding his omission. Several former cricketers, including Dale Steyn, openly questioned the decision, pointing to Baartman’s abilities.