BCCI announces a strong squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026; Tilak Varma to captain India A
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a strong 15-member India A squad for the ACC Men’s Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026. The tournament will take place in Doha, Qatar, from November 19 to 29, with India A aiming to secure the title against some of Asia’s most promising cricketing sides.
India A schedule and Group details
India A have been placed in Group B, alongside Pakistan A, Nepal and the United Arab Emirates. Group A comprises Bangladesh A, Sri Lanka A, Afghanistan A and Hong Kong, China.
India A will begin their campaign against Nepal on November 20, followed by a high-profile clash against Pakistan A on November 22. Their final group-stage match will be against the UAE on November 24.
The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals, scheduled for November 26 and 27. The final will be played on November 29.
Tilak Varma set to lead India A
Tilak Varma will captain India A in what promises to be an important assignment for the left-handed batter. His experience at the international level makes him a strong choice to guide a squad featuring a mix of young prospects and established domestic performers.
Rajat Patidar has been appointed vice-captain. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) skipper brings valuable experience to the leadership group and is expected to play an important role in the middle order.
The tournament will give both players an opportunity to strengthen their leadership credentials while helping younger teammates handle the pressure of a major multi-team competition.
Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi headline batting line-up
Abhishek Sharma is one of the biggest names in the India A squad. Known for his aggressive approach at the top of the order, the left-hander can put opposition bowlers under pressure from the opening overs.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s inclusion is another major talking point. The teenage batter has attracted considerable attention for his fearless strokeplay, and the Rising Stars Asia Cup will provide another platform to demonstrate his ability against quality opposition.
Prabhsimran Singh and Kumar Kushagra have been selected as wicketkeeping options. Rinku Singh adds finishing power to the batting unit, while Suryansh Shedge provides another option in the middle order.
With several players capable of accelerating the scoring rate, India A possess the batting depth required to compete in the 50-over format.
Harshit Rana returns as India strengthen their bowling attack
Harshit Rana’s selection is particularly significant as the fast bowler looks to return to competitive action after an injury disrupted his international campaign. His presence strengthen’s India’s pace attack and provides valuable experience to the bowling unit.
Prince Yadav and Arshad Khan are the other frontline pace options. The squad also includes all-rounders Shahbaz Ahmed, Vipraj Nigam, Harsh Dubey and Tanush Kotian, giving the team a range of bowling combinations.
Kotian’s inclusion comes after his performances in domestic cricket for Mumbai. His off-spin and batting ability could prove useful in conditions where control and adaptability are important.
The selection of multiple spin-bowling options also gives captain Tilak flexibility when managing the middle overs.
India A squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026
Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Tilak Varma (c), Rajat Patidar (vc), Rinku Singh, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Suryansh Shedge, Shahbaz Ahmed, Vipraj Nigam, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Harshit Rana, Prince Yadav, Arshad Khan.
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