Selecting the best all-time XI in T20 cricket is one of the toughest exercises for any player or expert. The format has evolved rapidly over the past two decades, with different eras producing a variety of match-winners. Some players dominated in the powerplay, others were successful in finishing roles, while the bowlers adapted with variation, mystery spin and accurate death bowling. Add to this the global expansion of leagues IPL, Big Bash Leagueand other franchise tournaments, and the challenge becomes even more complex. Every list inevitably stirs debate, especially when legendary names are left out.
In this background, the Australian leg spinner adam zampa recently revealed their best all-time T20 XI – but with an obvious caveat. Zampa has chosen the team from among the same players with whom he has shared the field during his career. The squad unveiled on Willow Talk Cricket Podcast ahead of the IPL 2026 season is loaded with superstars, yet one omission has left fans from the cricket world surprised.
Adam Zampa reveals his best all-time T20 XI
Zampa’s selected eleven reflects his experiences in international cricket and global T20 leagues. The team comprises explosive batsmen, versatile all-rounders and a balanced bowling attack capable of handling high-pressure situations.
The combination highlights Zampa’s power, adaptability and preference for proven match-winners – players who can change games in a matter of a few overs.
dynamic opener
At the top of the order, Zampa went with two contrasting but equally distinguished openers. chris gayleThe original T20 brings destructive, unmatched power and fear. Gayle’s ability to dominate bowlers from the first ball has defined T20 batting, making him an automatic choice in any all-time XI.
to make him a partner Virat KohliWhose continuity and adaptability sets it apart. While Gayle provides tremendous power, Kohli provides consistency, strike rotation and the ability to accelerate at will. Together, they form a balanced opening pair capable of setting or chasing any target.
solid midrange
There is a mix of flair, innovation and reliability in the middle order. Kevin Pietersen Established as an aggressive but technically sound batsman who performed well against both pace and spin in the shortest format. wicketkeeper-batsman josh inglis Adds flexibility, athleticism and fearless stroke play, qualities highly valued in modern T20 cricket.
to complete the trio AB de VilliersWidely considered one of the greatest T20 batsmen of all time. His ability to innovate, adapt to any situation and finish the game makes him the pivot of Zampa’s middle order.
star allrounder
Zampa’s XI is powered by elite all-rounders who deliver impact in multiple aspects. glen maxwell Offers explosive batting, off-spin options and exceptional fielding.
is with him andre russellOne of the most dangerous finishers in T20 history. Russell’s power-hitting and death bowling make him a match-winner in his own right. mystery spinner Sunil Narine Completes the all-round trio, offering economical bowling in the powerplay and useful hitting lower down the order.
formidable bowling attack
The bowling unit is a mix of pace, control and variety. nathan ellis Delivers lethal slow balls and yorkers in the death overs. Samuel Badri Adds accuracy and control with new ball Josh Hazlewood Provides bounce, discipline and big match flair.
Also read: Venkatesh Iyer reveals his all-time T20 playing XI ahead of IPL 2026; No place for Virat Kohli
Eyebrows raised when there was no place for MS Dhoni
The most talked about aspect of Zampa’s eleven is his absence. ms dhoni. Given Dhoni’s great T20 resume – multiple IPL titles, countless match-winning finishes and his calm leadership – the omission is surprising. Dhoni has a track record which very few people can match. His impact in high-pressure chases and his tactical skills behind the stumps have long made him prominent in discussions of the greatest T20 players of all time.
Zampa’s selection criteria were clear: he selected only players with whom he had personally played. However, the Australian leg spinner has actually played against the former India captain. Zampa made his international debut for Australia in early 2016, a time when Dhoni was still an active cricketer and India’s limited-overs captain.
Adam Zampa’s best all-time T20 XI (from players he has played with):
Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, Kevin Pietersen, Josh Inglis, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Nathan Ellis, Samuel Badree, Josh Hazlewood.
Also read: Amit Mishra opens up on rumors that claimed MS Dhoni hindered his career