Dinesh Karthik Backs Defending Champions India Ahead of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026

Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik believes defending champions India will remain one of the most formidable sides at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, citing the team’s depth, fearless brand of cricket and strong advantage in home conditions.

With less than a month to go before the tournament begins on February 7, Karthik shared his views alongside Nasser Hussain and Ian Bishop on Jiostar, expressing confidence in India’s revamped squad despite the absence of senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

“India are a very tough team to beat anywhere in the world, but especially in their own backyard,” Karthik said. “The depth in Indian cricket is fascinating. They could almost field two competitive teams. What’s exciting is that this is a fairly fresh side — a young team under a new captain in Suryakumar Yadav — and they’ve been playing very attacking, high-quality cricket.”

Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop noted that while history alone does not guarantee success, India’s strong build-up between World Cups works in their favour as defending champions.

“History has some bearing, but it’s not everything,” Bishop said. “What matters is how teams prepare between tournaments, and India seem to have built very well. That makes their past success a positive rather than a burden.”

Bishop also pointed out that dew could play a major role during matches in India and Sri Lanka in February and March, recalling how it influenced key games in previous World Cups, including the 2016 semi-final at Wankhede Stadium.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain highlighted the growing appeal of T20 cricket, calling the format a global shop window for players.

“T20 cricket attracts specialists, franchises and fans alike,” Hussain said. “A T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka is massive. Perform under pressure on this stage, and the whole world is watching. That’s why this format consistently delivers drama and unforgettable stories.”

India have been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, USA, Netherlands and Namibia. They will open their campaign against USA at the Wankhede Stadium on February 7, face Namibia in New Delhi on February 12, take on Pakistan in Colombo on February 15, and play the Netherlands in Ahmedabad on February 18.