T20 World Cup 2026: 3 Indian players who might be benched

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Strong squad brings tough selection calls

With limited spots in the playing XI, even quality players may have to sit out due to team balance and defined roles. Here are three players who might be benched.

3. Rinku Singh

Rinku is likely to be a backup finisher unless India choose to drop a bowler to strengthen their death-overs batting alongside Hardik Pandya.

2. Washington Sundar

With Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel already fitting into the combination, Washington Sundar may find it difficult to get a spot.

1. Ishan Kishan

Ishan Kishan could miss out as Sanju Samson has been preferred as the main wicketkeeper whenever Jitesh Sharma is not part of the XI.

Role clarity shaping selections

India appear to be backing specialists in each role, leaving little room for overlap in the playing XI.

Squad depth still matters

Even if they don’t get regular games, these players add depth and cover across a long and demanding tournament.

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