this 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Expected to be one of the most competitive global tournaments in recent years, several strong teams will compete as genuine title contenders. As the shortest format continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the team is replete with fearless batsmen, multi-dimensional all-rounders and specialist bowlers who can turn the tide in an over. As a result, fans around the world are gearing up for a tournament filled with thrills, huge profits and iconic moments, just like the last edition.

Amid growing excitement, former Zimbabwean cricketer and respected commentator Bomi Mbanguwa He has thrown his weight behind a clear favourite, backing the world champions to repeat their title glory.

Pommie Mbangwa picks 2026 T20 World Cup winner

Talking about the former South Africa captain Villiers” On his YouTube channel, Mbangwa admitted that he was strongly leaning towards India When asked to pick a potential winner for the 2026 edition. He believes that India’s strength lies in the depth in various departments, making them a formidable force under pressure.

“I would love to say India. They are too strong in all competitions,” Mbangwa highlighted how India meets all the requirements of modern T20 cricket.

He pointed out recent forms Suryakumar YadavCommonly known as SKY, it regained touch and praised its explosive rise Abhishek Sharmanoted how the young opener “couldn’t stop scoring runs” and always “crushed them”.

“I mean, I see Sky (Suryakumar Yadav) making some runs lately. I see Abhishek can’t stop scoring runs. He’s crushing them,” Mbanguwa added.

Mbangwa further highlights India’s bowling firepower, names Jasprit Bumrah Being a game changer with the ball and mentioning the mystery spinner Varun Chakraborty Being another X-factor that can tear apart the batting line-up on big occasions.

“They got Bumrah (Jasprit Bumrah). They got Chakravarthy (Varun Chakravarthy),” Addiction further increases.

Also read: Aakash Chopra outlines South Africa’s likely line-up for 2026 T20 World Cup

Why world champions can repeat history

India’s participation in the 2026 World Cup as defending champions will only strengthen their credentials. The core of the 2024 title-winning squad remains largely intact, while several players have matured further, adding experience and tactical awareness to their talents. Apart from Abhishek and Suryakumar; Sanzhou Samson Provides stability and aggression in the middle order while Hardik Pandya With bat and ball, hitting remains crucial, especially in high-pressure elimination games.

The balance of India is due to factors such as Axar Patelwhose control and finishing capabilities provide flexibility, as well as wicketkeeper-batsman options Ishan Kishanwho can change the tempo of the game in a few rounds. With Bumrah leading the pace of the attack and Varun playing a mysterious role in the middle order, India have a bowling unit that can adapt to different conditions.

Also read: Jacques Kallis explains why South Africa have a real chance of winning the 2026 T20 World Cup