T20 World Cup 2026 Captains Day Press Conference Highlights: 'It looks like we are favourites,' says India captain Suryakumar Yadav

T20 World Cup 2026 Captains Day Press Conference Highlights: The 10th edition of cricket’s T20 World Cup finally gets underway this weekend after a chaotic and politically charged lead-up that saw Bangladesh expelled from the tournament and Pakistan refusing to face India in a highly anticipated clash. Organisers will hope that once Pakistan meet the Netherlands in the opening match in Colombo, attention returns to cricket after weeks of controversy. India, the defending champions and co-hosts, begin their title defence against the United States in Mumbai under captain Suryakumar Yadav, carrying immense expectations from home fans. Despite being strong favourites to progress from Group A, India are unlikely to underestimate the USA, who famously upset Pakistan in the previous edition.Australia and England headline the list of challengers aiming to stop India from claiming a record second straight crown. Australia’s preparations have been disrupted by injuries to Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, yet Mitchell Marsh’s side remain confident of advancing from Group B. England, now led by Harry Brook, enter the tournament with renewed confidence after a dominant T20 series win in Sri Lanka, while two-time champions West Indies add depth to a competitive Group C that also features Nepal, Italy and Scotland. The Scots earned a dramatic late entry after Bangladesh’s withdrawal, and Italy’s debut signals cricket’s growing global reach.South Africa, runners-up in 2024, are targeting redemption but face a difficult Group D alongside New Zealand and Afghanistan. Off the field, the tournament has been overshadowed by geopolitical tensions, including Pakistan’s stance on playing India and the ICC’s ongoing wait for official confirmation on the boycott. A walkover could significantly hurt Pakistan’s qualification hopes while also impacting broadcast revenues. As the competition moves forward, teams will look to shift the narrative from politics to performance, with the final set for March 8 — potentially in Ahmedabad or Colombo depending on Pakistan’s progress.