Veteran cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has thrown his weight behind Ishan Kishan as the preferred wicketkeeper for the Indian squad at the T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held in Australia and New Zealand. Gavaskar's endorsement comes after Kishan's impressive performance in the recent T20I series against New Zealand, where he showcased his aggressive batting style and secured his maiden T20I century.

Kishan's return to the Indian side after a two-year absence has been marked by a strong showing in domestic cricket and a determination to cement his place in the national team. In the recent T20I series against New Zealand, Kishan amassed 215 runs in four matches, including a blistering 103 off 43 balls in the final match at Thiruvananthapuram. This performance underscored his ability to dominate the opposition and পাওয়ার India to a formidable total.

Gavaskar's support for Kishan comes at the expense of Sanju Samson, who has struggled to find consistency in his recent outings. Samson managed just 46 runs in five matches against New Zealand, with Gavaskar noting that Samson has been getting out in "odd ways," indicating a lack of confidence. Gavaskar believes that in a high-stakes tournament like the World Cup, the team cannot afford to take chances with players who are not in form.

"Sanju Samson is also a proven performer, but he is not in form," Gavaskar stated, emphasizing the importance of current form over past achievements. He also pointed out that the selection committee has provided Samson with ample opportunities, but Kishan's recent performances have made it difficult to ignore him.

Kishan's inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad would also provide flexibility to the batting order. His ability to bat at the top of the order and take on the opposition from the start makes him a valuable asset. Furthermore, his wicket-keeping skills add another dimension to his game, making him a strong contender for a place in the playing XI.

With Tilak Varma expected to return to the team soon, Gavaskar believes that Samson may find it difficult to secure a spot in the final XI for the T20 World Cup. Gavaskar said, "Unless Tilak Varma is not fit, I don't see Samson being part of the XI on February 7,". India is set to face the USA in their T20 World Cup opener.

Ishan Kishan has established himself as a dynamic and impactful player. His recent form, coupled with Gavaskar's backing, positions him as the frontrunner for the wicketkeeper's role in the T20 World Cup 2026. His journey, marked by a return from obscurity and a renewed hunger for success, makes him a compelling story as India prepares for the upcoming global tournament.