In a significant endorsement, former Indian fast bowler Atul Wassan has publicly backed the inclusion of Rinku Singh in the national T20 squad over star batter Shubman Gill. This comes in the wake of the T20 World Cup 2026 squad announcement on Saturday, December 21, 2025, which saw Gill being axed from the team.
The Selection Shake-up and Gill's Omission
The selection committee made a tough call by dropping Indian Test captain Shubman Gill from the T20 World Cup roster. Gill had been drafted into the T20I side during the Asia Cup, replacing the in-form opener Sanju Samson. This move had a ripple effect on the team's balance. Gill was made to open the innings but struggled to make a substantial impact, failing to deliver in 15 consecutive outings. Simultaneously, Samson, who was pushed down the batting order, also experienced a dip in performance.
For the upcoming global tournament, the selectors have opted for a change in strategy. With Gill left out, the explosive duo of Rinku Singh and Ishan Kishan has been brought into the squad. This decision likely paves the way for Sanju Samson to return to his preferred opening position, where he had previously enjoyed a purple patch.
Wassan's Strong Vote for Rinku Singh
Atul Wassan, the former Indian cricketer, has wholeheartedly applauded the selectors' decision to recall Rinku Singh. He did not mince words when stating his preference for the left-handed finisher over the established opener.
"I think this is well done. I think it's a brilliant selection, and hence, I say that Rinku Singh is back because he is the kind of player we have to invest in," Wassan stated. He elaborated on Rinku's qualities, highlighting his fearless approach and proven match-winning abilities. "He is a fearless guy. He has won us matches. He is that kind of guy. I would rather have him than Gill in the current situation," Wassan affirmed, emphasizing the value of a proven finisher in the T20 format.
Backing for Ishan Kishan's Return
Wassan was equally supportive of wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan's recall to the national setup. Kishan's selection marks a comeback after a period away from the team, which Wassan described as a return "from the wilderness."
"Wonderful. I think the guy is back from the wilderness, and I don't know what's been transpiring in the West Indies since he was dumped," Wassan commented, alluding to the often complex dynamics of team selection in Indian cricket. He acknowledged that perceptions about a player's attitude can sometimes influence decisions but stressed that performance is the ultimate key. "This happens in Indian cricket. You know, a lot of noise, and if somebody is seen as cocky... He is a good player, but he had to go back, perform, and bulldoze his way back. Well done, and I am really impressed, and he is the guy who is going to be our match-winner," Wassan concluded, expressing strong confidence in Kishan's potential impact.
The new squad composition signals a clear intent from the Indian think-tank to prioritize current form and specific role players as they build their campaign for the T20 World Cup in 2026. The choices of Rinku Singh and Ishan Kishan, backed by voices like Wassan's, add an intriguing layer of power-hitting and flexibility to the Indian batting lineup.
