Former India captain Rohit Sharma has expressed his excitement for the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup, which is set to kick off on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. Despite retiring from the format after leading India to victory in the 2024 edition, Rohit Sharma has vowed to be present at the stadium to witness the action unfold.
Having played a crucial role in India’s title run in the inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup in 2007 and then leading the team to victory in 2024, Rohit Sharma is no stranger to the pressure and thrill of the tournament. With 1,220 runs to his name in the T20 World Cup, he stands as the second-highest run-scorer in the history of the tournament.
Reflecting on the upcoming T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma shared his thoughts on JioStar, stating, “We were talking about this at home, that it will be strange watching it from home, especially the T20 World Cup. From the time it started until now, I have been part of every World Cup, so it will feel different. When you miss a World Cup, the reality really sinks in. That’s when you realise you’re not going to be part of it. However, I will be somewhere in the stadium. It won’t be the same, but it will be a different experience.”
Despite not being on the field, Rohit Sharma remains optimistic about Team India’s chances in the tournament. With a squad that has remained largely unchanged since their title-winning campaign in 2024, Rohit believes that the team’s strong understanding and cohesion will play a crucial role in their quest for another T20 World Cup victory. The Men in Blue have been in exceptional form in T20Is, winning 17 out of their 20 completed games since the start of 2025.
As India’s all-time leading run-scorer in T20Is with 4,231 runs, Rohit Sharma’s absence, along with that of Virat Kohli, has not dampened the expectations surrounding Team India. With a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, the team has been labeled as a significant favorite by fans and experts alike.
As the cricketing world gears up for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma’s presence at the stadium will undoubtedly add to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the tournament. With his invaluable experience and leadership, Rohit will continue to be a guiding force for Team India, even from the sidelines.
