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India’s preparations 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup The team is gaining momentum as Ayush Badoni and Priyansh Arya are included in the India A squad for a series of crucial warm-up matches. The move underscores the team management’s intention to closely evaluate emerging talent ahead of the global showcase, which begins on February 7.
India warm-up matches to be held in Navi Mumbai and Bangalore
As part of the preparations for the World Cup, the India A team will play two preliminary matches. They will face the United States in Navi Mumbai on February 2, followed by Namibia in Bengaluru on February 6. These matches are designed to provide valuable exposure for fringe players while helping the senior squad fine-tune their mix ahead of matches.
The warm-up matches will serve as an audition window for youngsters with the hope that they will push for future international opportunities, particularly in the shortest format.
Ayush Badoni Indian cricket continues its steady rise
Badoni’s selection was based on his consistent performance across all formats. The right-handed batsman has previously represented India A in four-day and A-grade cricket and is known for his calmness and adaptability. He earned his first call-up to the India senior squad for the ODI series against New Zealand earlier this month, a clear indication that the selectors are keeping a close eye on his progress.
His inclusion in the India A squad reflects the selectors’ confidence in his ability to handle high-pressure situations, especially as India look to strengthen their middle-order depth in white-ball cricket.
Priyansh Arya wins award for his white-ball performance
Meanwhile, Priyansh Arya continues to rise in the domestic circuit. Unlike Badoni, Arya’s exposure at the ‘A’ level has so far been limited to the white-ball format. However, his can-do attitude and consistent performances in domestic T20 and Group A matches have earned him another chance to impress in the national draft.
The upcoming warm-up matches could be crucial for Arya as he looks to establish himself as a long-term prospect for India’s T20 programme.
Tilak Varma will return from injury
In order to vigorously promote India’s preparations for the World Cup, Tilak Varma Expected to participate in warm-up matches after receiving official permission Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Center of Excellence. The Hyderabad batsman has been out for nearly a month after undergoing surgery on an abdominal injury sustained during the Ranji Trophy.
The BCCI had earlier confirmed that Tilak has returned to fitness training and his rehabilitation is making steady progress. His return will provide India with more stability at the top of the order.
Tilak is scheduled to join the team in Mumbai on February 3. He will play for the India A team in a warm-up match against the United States at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on February 2 before joining the Indian national team for another warm-up match against South Africa at the same venue on February 4.
