Rishabh Pant may not be a part of India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, yet he managed to grab attention with his boldness and confidence at the mega event. Rishabh Pant named the four teams whom he believes will reach the semi-finals of the tournament.
Rishabh Pant predicts T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finalists
There is a surprise pick which has caught everyone’s attention. The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman believes that the defending champions, the Men in Blue, will continue their strong performance in the T20 World Cup 2026.
Pant has also backed former champions Australia and last edition’s runners-up South Africa as his next two semi-finalists. He also feels that Afghanistan can surprise everyone by reaching the top 4.
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The aggressive batsman has described the Rashid Khan-led Afghanistan cricket team as a fast-rising force and feels they now have the quality and mentality to challenge the world’s biggest teams.
“India, Australia and South Africa; the fourth team should be Asian-Afghanistan,” Pant said on Sport Tak’s YouTube channel.
Pant predicted history for India
Apart from this, Pant is also confident about India’s chances of creating history. The star cricketer feels that the Men in Blue are in great form, having won eight consecutive series and the current team has what it takes to lift their third T20 World Cup trophy.
He said, “90 percent chance for India.” [to win the title]”
Pant delivers one-word verdict on India’s T20 World Cup 2026 stars
During the same discussion, Pant also described in one word several Indian players who are part of the T20 World Cup 2026 squad. The Indian wicketkeeper called Ishan Kishan “cute” and Abhishek Sharma as “handsome”. Sanju Samson (team man) and Rinku Singh (amazing team man) were praised for always putting the team first.
Furthermore, the LSG captain felt that Shivam Dube is a “game-changer”, while Hardik Pandya earned special praise for his excellent presence – “outrageous and excellent”. Tilak Verma was termed “brave”, while Washington Sundar was described as a “smart package” by Pant.
Finally, Arshdeep Singh was described as an “intelligent bowler”. It is noteworthy that Pant was a part of India’s T20 World Cup winning team in 2024, but he is not a part of the team since last year. However, the Indian wicketkeeper remains an important member of India’s Test and ODI team.
Pant shared an update on his fitness
Recently, the left-handed batsman missed the ODI series against New Zealand due to a side strain. Sharing an update on his fitness, the Indian star said that he is recovering well and hopes to return to action as soon as possible.
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“My fitness is getting better day by day. I am working hard at the Center of Excellence and I think I will be out on the field soon,” Pant was quoted as saying by PTI on the sidelines of the World Pickleball League.
Every comeback has taught me something about life: Pant
The Indian star said that the injuries helped him look at the game and life in a new way. Nevertheless, he admitted that missing matches was the hardest part of being sidelined. He concluded by saying, “Each comeback has taught me something or the other about life.
It’s taught me more gratitude, how you see things around you, and wanting to commit to something that truly makes you happy. When I’m injured the thing I miss most is enjoying the game. You love this game and you enjoy playing it at the top level. It’s something I really miss.”
