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T20 World Cup 2026: Which team looks the strongest based on current squad

Which team is strongest in T20 World Cup 2026 based on current squads? (Photo Source: BCCI) The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to begin on February 7, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. With 20 teams competing for the coveted trophy, the tournament promises high-octane cricket and several contenders eyeing glory. While some teams are aiming to lift the title for the first time, others are chasing a second crown. India, meanwhile, will enter the competition as defending champions after their triumph over South Africa in the 2024 final. In the build-up to the marquee event, teams have been testing combinations through warm-up fixtures and intensive training camps, trying to finalise their strongest possible XIs. Given the subcontinental conditions, the tournament is expected to be batter-friendly, potentially turning into a run-fest. However, spin bowling is also likely to play a major role on Asian pitches, while pacers who can adapt with variations will remain crucial. Who has the strongest team in the T20 World Cup 2026? Among the 20 teams, one side stands out for its depth and match-winning options across departments, the co-hosts, India. On paper, India appear to have ticked all the boxes heading into the tournament. India’s strength begins at the top of the order with Abhishek Sharma, currently the world’s No.1-ranked T20I batter. The left-handed batter is known for his fearless approach and can dismantle bowling attacks from the outset and score at a strike rate well above 200. Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan could support him at the top and the aggressive wicketkeeper-batters capable of taking the game away in the powerplay or consolidating when required. The middle order is anchored by captain Suryakumar Yadav, one of the most destructive batters in T20 cricket, alongside the technically sound Tilak Varma. Their ability to dominate spinners and manipulate gaps during the middle overs adds immense stability. India’s finishing department is equally formidable. Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, and Rinku Singh provide power under pressure, making them ideal options in the death overs. The presence of vice-captain Axar Patel further strengthens the side, offering valuable all-round skills and experience in crunch situations. In the bowling department, India boast match-winners in both pace and spin. Jasprit Bumrah’s precision and Varun Chakravarthy’s mystery spin can control and break partnerships, while Kuldeep Yadav adds wicket-taking threat in the middle overs. Pacers Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana provide depth and variety, especially on surfaces offering assistance. Considering squad balance and conditions, India emerge as the strongest team heading into the T20 World Cup 2026 and will be strong favourites to defend their title and lift the trophy for a third time. India's squad for 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

34 minutes ago

Karachi Kings announce Moeen Ali as direct signing ahead of PSL 2026

Karachi Kings sign Moeen Ali in direct deal ahead of PSL 11 Auction. (Photo Source: Twitter) Karachi Kings have confirmed the direct signing of former England all-rounder Moeen Ali ahead of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 auction, adding significant firepower and experience to their squad. Moeen, a proven global T20 performer with extensive experience around the world, will join the franchise for PKR 6.44 crore, outside the regular auction purse. The Karachi Kings made the announcement on their social media, calling Moeen ‘England’s explosive force’ and welcoming him into their squad ahead of the tournament that begins on March 26. 🚨 Direct Signing Alert 🚨We’re excited to announce England’s 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 explosive force, Moeen Ali, joining the #KingsSquad for PKR 6.44 Crore in the HBL PSL 11! 💙❤Let’s create magic together 🪄 pic.twitter.com/VSyBqQ9czj — Karachi Kings (@KarachiKingsARY) February 4, 2026 A Birmingham-born, Moeen has become a familiar name on the T20 circuit over the past decade. He has played in multiple top leagues, including note-worthy stints in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with big franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore, Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. Before this direct signing, Moeen also featured in the PSL, turning out for Multan Sultans between 2019 and 2021, playing nine games. Karachi Kings have already outlined their core squad ahead of the auction, retaining players like star pacer Hasan Ali, all-rounder Khushdil Shah, and Saad Baig across various categories. Moeen Ali’s retirement U-turn Meanwhile, the England all-rounder recently took a surprise domestic cricket retirement U-turn when he was announced as new signing for Yorkshire ahead of the new season. Reacting to the decision, Moeen provided his thoughts behind his shock decision. "I've always loved playing at Headingley. The wicket, the atmosphere and the supporters make it a special place. This feels like a fresh challenge and I'm arriving hungry for it. I want to bring my experience, enjoy my cricket and help Yorkshire compete," he concluded. Recently, Steve Smith, too, was signed as direct signing by the newest team of the PSL, Sialkot Stallionz.

45 minutes ago