Team India will enter the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as defending champions, carrying the weight of expectations from millions of fans across the country. With India co-hosting the marquee tournament alongside Sri Lanka, anticipation is at an all-time high. Familiar conditions, roaring home crowds, and a settled core have further fuelled belief that India can once again dominate the global stage. As preparations intensify, debates have already begun over which Indian batter could emerge as the tournament’s leading run-scorer—a question that has sparked varied and fascinating opinions from former cricketers and experts.
Experts predict India’s top run-getter in the mega event
Several former India stars have put forward their picks, reflecting the depth and variety in India’s batting line-up. Former India batter Suresh Raina backed the current skipper Suryakumar Yadav, highlighting leadership and consistency as key factors.
“India’s captain, World Cup captain Suryakumar Yadav,” Raina said in a video shared by Star Sports on X.
Echoing similar confidence, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan threw his weight behind the Indian captain as well.
“I really bank on Suryakumar Yadav,” Pathan stated, pointing towards his unmatched impact in T20 cricket.
However, not everyone is leaning towards the same name. Former batter Mohammad Kaif opted for youth and consistency as he went with middle-order batter Tilak Varma.
“I will go with Tilak Varma,” Kaif’s choice reflects Tilak’s rapid rise and ability to play long, impactful innings.
Former World Cup winner Robin Uthappa also went with experience and instinct picking Surya as his choice. He said: “This is my inclination and gut instinct, I feel Suryakumar Yadav will be the highest run-scorer.”
In contrast, seasoned analyst Aakash Chopra looked towards explosive starts at the top and named Abhishek Sharma as his choice.
“I can’t look beyond Abhishek Sharma,” Chopra said, banking on the opener’s fearless approach.
Adding to that view, former India captain Anil Kumble admitted the choice wasn’t easy but still favoured the opening slot.
“That’s a tough call, I would still go with the openers and I would go with Abhishek Sharma,” explained Kumble.
Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara also leaned towards Abhishek, while former batting coach Sanjay Bangar chose Tilak, citing his temperament and adaptability.
Indian batters set to sizzle in home conditions
India’s strength lies in the sheer variety within its batting unit. From the explosive Abhishek at the top to the ever-innovative Suryakumar in the middle, and from the composure of Tilak Varma to the power-hitting ability of Hardik Pandya and the reliability of Sanju Samson, India boast multiple match-winners.
Home conditions are expected to amplify these strengths, with batting-friendly pitches and shorter boundaries aiding stroke-makers. As the tournament unfolds, consistency rather than reputation may decide the top run-scorer. One thing, however, is certain—India’s batters are primed to light up the T20 World Cup 2026 in front of their home fans.
