India just crushed New Zealand in their latest series. But the real story isn't just the win; it's the massive fight for spots in the starting eleven. A few guys played so well that the team management now has some tough (but good) decisions to make before the 2026 T20 World Cup. These five players basically locked down their spots with some massive performances.
Indian Stars Ready To Carry India In The 2026 T20 World Cup
1. Ishan Kishan:
Ishan Kishan shut the critics up in the fifth T20I. He went off, smashing 103 runs from just 43 balls. That first century changed everything for India’s opening spot because he never stopped attacking from the very first delivery. He looked comfortable against high pace and tricky spin alike. It looks like he finally found the consistency he needs for the big stage.
2. Abhishek Sharma:
Abhishek Sharma is changing how we look at opening the batting. He kept a strike rate over 249 during those first six overs. By taking advantage of the fielding rules, he gave India some flying starts and took the weight off the middle order. Sharma isn't afraid of anyone. Even when world-class bowlers tried to tie him down, he kept the scoreboard moving.
3. Arshdeep Singh:
Arshdeep Singh put on a clinic with his 5/51. He showed exactly why he’s the leader of this pace attack in T20Is. He has clearly grown up as a bowler. Arshdeep loves the pressure when there is no room for mistakes.
4. Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya looked sharp again. He hammered 42 runs off only 17 balls. He didn't just swing blindly; he picked his spots and hit some stunning shots to push India to a mammoth total in the 5th T20I. Having him at number six gave India a massive safety net. He acted as a nightmare for bowlers at the end of the innings.
5. The Keeper Choice: Kishan or Samson?
Sanju Samson had a rough time this series against New Zealand, as he averaged only 9.20. Meanwhile, Kishan played on another level. This gap makes things hard for the selectors. They
have to decide if they value recent form over what a player might do on their best day. Fans still disagree on the next step. Some want to give Samson another shot, while others think Kishan has officially taken the gloves for the World Cup.
