Mohammad Kaif Backs India to Defend T20 World Cup Title at Home in 2026

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif believes India has the quality and depth to successfully defend their ICC Men's T20 World Cup title, backing the hosts to go all the way in the 2026 edition to be held in India and Sri Lanka.

Speaking on the Hotstar show Team India's Blueprint for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026, Kaif praised India's balance, match-winning depth, and the leadership of captain Suryakumar Yadav, who has returned to form during the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand.

"India have a very balanced side. They are playing at home, so they will have strong local support. The crowds will come in large numbers, and the fans have always backed the team. They are also the defending champions, having won the T20 World Cup last time, so there will be a lot of excitement among the fans," Kaif said.

"You look at the names, Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, all of them are in very good form. Then, there are Bumrah, Varun, and Kuldeep in the bowling attack, and the list goes on. India has one match-winner after another in the side, and no other team has this luxury. With the quality they have, I think India should win the T20 World Cup."

Kaif on Suryakumar Yadav's batting position

Kaif also weighed in on Suryakumar's ideal batting role, suggesting flexibility depending on match situations while stressing the importance of maximising India's most experienced batter.
"Suryakumar Yadav's record at number four has been exceptional. So, I think he is more suited to that position.

However, in situations where the opening partnership is going well and the openers get through the Powerplay, or even beyond that, I feel Surya should come in at number three. If your most experienced batter gets to face more deliveries, it is better for India. If a wicket falls early, when the ball is still new, you can send Tilak Varma in at number three. But if there is a strong partnership at the top, Surya should be the next batter to come in."

Kaif on India's T20 World Cup Captain

The former batter also highlighted Suryakumar's leadership style, pointing to his strong rapport with teammates and attention to detail even after victories.

"Surya's camaraderie with the players is excellent. The way he stays constantly in touch with them stands out. I remember an instance when, even after India had won the game, he was speaking to the players and discussing areas where they could improve for the next match. That shows his passion as Captain. He is a proper leader who takes everyone along with him, and his record as a Captain is outstanding. His winning percentage is quite high as well."

India begins their T20 World Cup campaign on February 7, with the tournament set to be broadcast live on JioHotstar and the Star Sports Network.