The cricketing world is buzzing with excitement as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the 15-member squad for the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup in England, and there's a fresh face making headlines. Delhi Capitals' pace sensation Nandani Sharma has earned her maiden India call-up, capping off a breakout season that has fans and analysts alike taking notice.
The 24-year-old seamer from Chandigarh burst onto the scene during the Women's Premier League (WPL), where she finished as the joint-highest wicket-taker with an impressive 17 wickets in just 10 matches for the runners-up Delhi Capitals. Her campaign was nothing short of spectacular, highlighted by a hat-trick in only her second match—a feat that instantly marked her as one of the tournament's breakout stars. Now, she'll get the chance to showcase her skills on the biggest stage of all.
But the squad news doesn't stop there. The selectors have also welcomed back wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia and left-arm spinner Radha Yadav, both bringing valuable experience to the team. Yastika's return is particularly heartwarming—she's been sidelined since April 2024 after undergoing ACL surgery, which ruled her out of the 2025 ODI World Cup. Her comeback adds depth to the lower-middle order and strengthens the wicketkeeping group led by Richa Ghosh.
Radha Yadav, a veteran of 89 T20Is with 103 wickets to her name, is set to feature in her fifth T20 World Cup. Her return bolsters India's spin attack, which already boasts the talents of Deepti Sharma, Shreyanka Patil, and Shree Charani. This spin-heavy lineup could prove crucial on English pitches.
Unfortunately, injuries have forced some tough decisions. Promising allrounders Amanjot Kaur (back injury) and Kashvee Gautam (knee) have been ruled out, with chief selector Amita Sharma confirming that Kashvee will undergo surgery. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur added that Amanjot could be sidelined for up to five months, opening the door for Radha's recall.
India's campaign kicks off with a high-stakes clash against Pakistan on June 14 in Birmingham. They'll face a challenging Group A that includes powerhouses Australia, South Africa, and Bangladesh, along with the Netherlands. The team will assemble for a pre-tournament camp at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence starting May 10, before heading to England for a three-match T20I series that will serve as crucial preparation.
For fans of women's cricket, this squad represents a perfect blend of emerging talent and seasoned experience. Nandani Sharma's rise is a testament to the growing depth of Indian cricket, and her journey from WPL standout to national team call-up is exactly the kind of story that inspires the next generation. As Harmanpreet Kaur prepares for her 10th T20 World Cup, the stage is set for what promises to be an unforgettable tournament.