'2024 Team 10 Percent Ahead': Ex-India Coach Feels Rohit's Title Winners Better Than SKY's Squad

Last Updated:February 03, 2026, 14:47 IST

Anil Kumble says India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad is strong but 2024 title-winning team led by Rohit Sharma had an edge due to experience from senior stars.

Former India captain and head coach Anil Kumble said India’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is strong and well-balanced but believes the 2024 title-winning side had a slight edge due to their experience in high-pressure situations.

India ended their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy by winning the T20 World Cup in 2024 under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, defeating South Africa in a tense final. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja made key contributions, provinding stability and composure during crucial moments. Shortly after their victory, all three retired from T20 internationals, marking the end of an era for Indian cricket in the shortest format.

Following their retirement, Suryakumar Yadav took over as captain, and under his leadership, India has enjoyed a strong run, remaining unbeaten in T20I series.

Kumble, though, believes the absence of Rohit and Kohli still significantly impacts the team’s experience and ability to handle pressure on the biggest stage.

Ro-Ko Mising

Speaking on Star Sports’ “Out of the Park" show, Kumble said, “If you talk about experience, they will miss Virat and Rohit, the two legends, but if you talk about balance, I feel this team is also good because you have bowling options and the batting is different in terms of approach at the top."

“However, it’s still going to be challenging. 2024, in terms of conditions, was very different. I would probably rate the 2024 team maybe 10 percent ahead of this team, but I still feel this team is very close to that."

Kumble compared both squads, acknowledging that conditions and circumstances in 2024 played a role, but he still considers that side slightly superior. He also highlighted the significance of players stepping up in crucial moments, recalling how Kohli and Axar Patel performed under pressure in the previous final. Kumble believes similar performances will be necessary in 2026 and came out in support of India’s current skipper to play a major role.

“Those are moments where you can’t really take the experience away. That’s where I feel that someone like a Surya (Suryakumar Yadav) will be very crucial. Yes, in terms of form, he will be crucial, but also ensuring those clutch moments are won by India," Kumble added.

(With inputs from Agencies)

News cricket '2024 Team 10 Percent Ahead': Ex-India Coach Feels Rohit's Title Winners Better Than SKY's Squad

Click here to read article