Former India opener and ex-chief selector Kris Srikkanth has stirred a major debate in the cricketing world by declaring that India has “no chance” of winning the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 with the current squad. Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Cheeky Cheeka’, Srikkanth criticized the team selection for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, questioning the logic behind key inclusions and exclusions, and expressing concern over the squad’s readiness for the global tournament just six months away.
India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025 was announced on August 19, with Suryakumar Yadav retained as captain and Shubman Gill named vice-captain. However, the omission of experienced players like Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Prasidh Krishna has raised eyebrows, especially with the inclusion of underperforming IPL 2025 players such as Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, and Harshit Rana.
🧭 Timeline of Squad Announcement and Srikkanth’s Reaction
| Date | Event Description | Impact on Public Sentiment |
|---|---|---|
| August 19, 2025 | India’s Asia Cup squad announced | Mixed reactions from fans and experts |
| August 20, 2025 | Srikkanth releases video criticizing selection | Sparks national debate |
| August 27, 2025 | Srikkanth reiterates stance on T20 World Cup chances | Headlines across media platforms |
Srikkanth’s blunt assessment—“We might win the Asia Cup with this team, but there is no chance of winning the T20 World Cup with this bunch”—has triggered widespread discussion on whether India’s selection committee is prioritizing form or reputation.
📊 India’s Asia Cup 2025 Squad Overview
| Player Name | Role | IPL 2025 Performance | Srikkanth’s Viewpoint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suryakumar Yadav | Captain, Batter | Consistent performer | Backed for leadership |
| Shubman Gill | Vice-Captain, Batter | Missed T20Is since July 2024 | Questioned timing of appointment |
| Rinku Singh | Finisher | 206 runs in 13 matches | Criticized for lack of form |
| Shivam Dube | All-rounder | 357 runs in 14 matches | Called inconsistent |
| Harshit Rana | Pacer | Selected over Purple Cap winner | Selection baffling |
| Axar Patel | All-rounder | Removed as vice-captain | Seen as a regressive move |
| Prasidh Krishna | Pacer (Standby) | Purple Cap winner | Should have been in main squad |
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | Batter (Standby) | Strong IPL and international form | Ignored despite merit |
Srikkanth believes the selectors have gone “backwards” by ignoring recent performances and relying on outdated metrics.
🔍 Key Concerns Raised by Srikkanth
Srikkanth’s criticism centers around four major issues:
- Vice-Captaincy Shuffle: Axar Patel was removed in favor of Shubman Gill, who hasn’t played a T20I in over a year.
- Inconsistent IPL Picks: Players like Rinku Singh and Harshit Rana were chosen despite poor IPL 2025 form.
- No. 5 Batting Slot: Lack of clarity on who will anchor the middle order—options include Samson, Jitesh, Dube, or Rinku.
- Ignored Performers: Yashasvi Jaiswal and Prasidh Krishna, both in top form, were relegated to standby roles.
| Issue | Srikkanth’s Commentary | Implication for World Cup Prep |
|---|---|---|
| Vice-Captaincy Change | “Axar axed without reason” | Disrupts leadership continuity |
| IPL Form Ignored | “Selections based on past, not present” | Weakens squad credibility |
| No. 5 Uncertainty | “Who will bat at five?” | Middle-order instability |
| Standby Over Main Squad | “Jaiswal and Krishna deserve better” | Missed opportunity for balance |
Srikkanth’s remarks have resonated with fans who feel the squad lacks depth and strategic foresight.
📉 India’s Schedule Before T20 World Cup 2026
India’s preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026 includes a packed calendar of bilateral series and tournaments.
| Month | Series/Event | Matches Scheduled | Objective |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | Asia Cup (UAE) | 7 T20Is | Squad testing and continental dominance |
| October–Nov 2025 | Australia Tour | 5 T20Is | Overseas conditions and team bonding |
| December 2025 | South Africa Home Series | 5 T20Is | Home advantage and experimentation |
| January 2026 | New Zealand Home Series | 5 T20Is | Final squad tuning before World Cup |
| February–March 2026 | ICC T20 World Cup (India & SL) | TBD | Global tournament |
Despite the busy schedule, Srikkanth fears the current squad lacks the adaptability and firepower needed for a world title.
🧠 Selection Committee Under Scrutiny
Led by Ajit Agarkar, the selection committee has faced criticism for its choices, especially in light of India’s recent performances and IPL 2025 statistics.
| Selector Name | Role | Criticism Faced |
|---|---|---|
| Ajit Agarkar | Chief Selector | Ignoring IPL form, unclear strategy |
| Shiv Sundar Das | Selector | Overlooked consistent performers |
| Salil Ankola | Selector | Backed controversial picks |
The committee’s decisions have sparked calls for more transparency and accountability in selection processes.
🔥 Fan Reactions and Media Buzz
Srikkanth’s comments have gone viral, with fans and pundits echoing his concerns. Social media platforms are abuzz with hashtags like #NoChanceForIndia and #T20WC2026Debate.
| Platform | Sentiment Summary | Trending Hashtags |
|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | Mixed reactions, support for Srikkanth | #NoChanceForIndia #AsiaCupSquad |
| YouTube | Cheeky Cheeka episode gains traction | #SrikkanthSpeaks |
| Memes and reels on squad selection | #T20WorldCup2026 |
Many fans agree that while India may dominate the Asia Cup, the current squad lacks the edge for a global title.
📌 Conclusion
Kris Srikkanth’s explosive statement that India has “no chance” of winning the T20 World Cup 2026 with the current squad has reignited debates around team selection, leadership, and preparation. With just six months to go before the mega event, the pressure is mounting on selectors, players, and management to reassess their strategy and build a team capable of conquering the world stage.
Whether Srikkanth’s prediction proves accurate or not, one thing is clear: India’s road to the T20 World Cup 2026 will be closely watched, fiercely debated, and emotionally charged.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available news reports and official statements as of August 27, 2025. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or sports advice.
