New Delhi: Defending champions and co-hosts India have announced their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026 starting February 7. The selection has sparked debate but experts Sunil Gavaskar Harbhajan Singh and Saba Karim have backed the bold form-driven decisions. While Shubman Gill’s omission surprised many the inclusion of Ishan Kishan and Rinku Singh has been widely welcomed as India aims for a historic third T20 World Cup title. Sunil Gavaskar: Domestic Cricket Must Matter Speaking on Follow The Blues Sunil Gavaskar strongly emphasized that domestic performances should be a key selection parameter. He pointed to Ishan Kishan’s outstanding run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy as proof. Gavaskar highlighted Kishan’s comeback after two years his leadership in guiding Jharkhand to a title-winning campaign and said consistent domestic form—not just IPL success—must guide national selection. Gill’s Omission: Form vs Class Debate Gavaskar admitted Shubman Gill’s exclusion was surprising calling him a “classic quality batter.” He explained that Gill’s recent struggles were more about rhythm than ability especially in the fast-paced T20 format. However Gavaskar stressed that class is permanent and backed Gill to bounce back stronger noting that his omission was not a judgment on his long-term potential. Harbhajan Singh Backs the Team Combination Harbhajan Singh gave full marks to chief selector Ajit Agarkar and the team management for prioritizing balance. He praised the return of Ishan Kishan and the selection of Rinku Singh calling both players vital for India’s T20 structure. Harbhajan explained that with Gill unavailable India needed a powerful top-order batter who could also keep wickets making Kishan a logical choice. Saba Karim Calls It a Bold Course Correction Former selector Saba Karim described the late squad changes as brave and necessary. He explained that once the selectors decided on a wicketkeeper-opener combination the rest of the squad fell into place. Karim praised the committee for trusting current form and making tough calls before the World Cup saying the chosen 15 gives India the best chance to defend their title. Story Highlights Sunil Gavaskar says domestic cricket performances must be the primary selection criterion citing Ishan Kishan’s SMAT form. Shubman Gill’s omission surprised experts but all backed his quality and future prospects. Harbhajan Singh praised the return of Ishan Kishan and inclusion of Rinku Singh for team balance. Saba Karim called the late squad changes a bold but necessary course correction ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.