Former India opening batsman Virender Sehwag has expressed strong confidence in the Indian cricket team's ability to defend their T20 World Cup title on home soil, stating that the 2026 squad is superior to the legendary 2007 team that won the inaugural tournament.
Sehwag's Bold Comparison to 2007 Champions
In a recent interview with Cricbuzz, Sehwag made a striking comparison between the current Indian team and the MS Dhoni-led side that triumphed in the first T20 World Cup nearly two decades ago. The former cricketer asserted that the 2026 team possesses better overall quality and balance across all departments.
"According to me, this team is better than the one that we won the 2007 T20 World Cup with," Sehwag declared. "They have good all-rounders and spinners. Best fast bowlers in the world and the top order is in form."
Perfect Blend of Experience and Youth
Sehwag highlighted the ideal combination of seasoned players and emerging talent in the current squad, which he believes gives India a significant advantage. He praised the leadership of captain Suryakumar Yadav and the team's consistent performances under his guidance.
"The Indian team is very good. And they are performing very well under the captaincy of Suryakumar Yadav," Sehwag noted. "There's a lot of experience and some young players too. And they rightly say that there is no better combination of experience and youth."
X-Factor Players Who Could Make the Difference
The former opener specifically mentioned several players who could prove decisive in India's campaign:
- Varun Chakravarthy: His mystery spin bowling adds an unpredictable element to India's attack
- Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh: Sehwag described their lower-order abilities as "underrated" but crucial
- Abhishek Sharma: The 25-year-old left-hander received special praise for his explosive starts
Abhishek Sharma's Impact Compared to Sehwag Himself
Sehwag drew a personal comparison to young opener Abhishek Sharma, suggesting the player's aggressive approach mirrors his own batting style from his playing days.
"I think the way Abhishek Sharma gives them starts, the way I used to, is a big advantage for India," Sehwag explained. "When he's in form and batting at his 200+ strike rate, it's hard to take the game away from them."
Historical Context and High Expectations
India begins their T20 World Cup defense against the USA on Friday, with an opportunity to create history in multiple ways. A successful title defense would make India the first team ever to retain the World T20 trophy. Additionally, it would mark the first time any team has won the tournament on home soil.
Sehwag expressed optimism about India replicating their 2011 ODI World Cup success, when they won the championship as hosts. "I have every hope, good reason to believe, that we will repeat what happened in 2011 and win it at home," he stated confidently.
The former cricketer's comments come at a crucial time as India prepares for their opening match, with the entire nation expecting another world title from the Men in Blue. Sehwag's endorsement adds to the growing belief that this Indian team has the potential to achieve what no other team has accomplished in T20 World Cup history.
