The Indian team’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 has triggered intense discussion, with the selectors making a pair of bold calls. Shubman Gill and Jitesh Sharma have been left out. And the selectors have placed their faith in two wicketkeeper-batters, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan. 

Gill’s omission was the most headline-grabbing decision, as he was India's vice-captain in T20Is until being left out of the T20I WC squad. Jitesh Sharma’s exclusion was also equally shocking. Over the past year, Jitesh had established himself as a reliable batter and backup wicketkeeping option. Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa voiced his concern over India's selection choice.

"Indian cricket. It is a strange place, guys. It is one strange place. You think that there's some semblance of predictability with what could happen, and the team gets announced. I'm not saying the team's not a great side. It's a great side. It's a fantastic side, but hearts are broken for sure, and it doesn't feel good, and anyone who's ever played cricket will know what that feels like for Shubman and will know what that feels like for Jitesh, and it is heartbreaking. I empathise with them," Uthappa said on his YouTube channel.

"You’ve got to feel bad for Shubman Gill. He’s the captain of the Test and ODI side. Worst case scenario, I thought somebody else might be named the vice captain, but he’ll find a spot in the side, maybe not in the 11, but he’ll find a spot in the side as a third opener.”

Uthappa also spoke on Jitesh, who fell prey to stiff competition for middle-order slots.

“Jitesh did nothing wrong. He has done exceptionally well. Having said that, the justification for the selections seems legit. It’s a solid side, but my heart goes out to Shubman Gill and Jitesh Sharma. Just take some time, guys. Deal with this and then come back strong. Your talent doesn’t disappear, and how unique and special you are for Indian cricket does not diminish because of this non-selection. You guys will do superb things in cricket. Just go back to the drawing board and be authentically you is what I would say to Shubman and Jitesh," he said.