The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a 15‑member India A squad for the ACC Men’s Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026. The tournament will be staged in Doha, Qatar, from 19 to 29 November, with India A targeting the title against Asia’s top emerging teams.
India A schedule and group details
India A have been drawn in Group B, which also contains Pakistan A, Nepal and the United Arab Emirates. Group A consists of Bangladesh A, Sri Lanka A, Afghanistan A and Hong Kong, China.
India A’s fixtures in the group stage are: a clash with Nepal on 20 November, a high‑profile match against Pakistan A on 22 November, and a final group‑stage encounter with the UAE on 24 November.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi‑finals on 26 and 27 November, with the final scheduled for 29 November.
Tilak Varma set to lead India A
Tilak Varma will captain India A in a tournament that promises to be a key assignment for the left‑handed batter. His international experience makes him a strong choice to guide a blend of young prospects and established domestic performers.
Rajat Patidar has been appointed vice‑captain. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) skipper brings valuable middle‑order experience and is expected to play an important role in the leadership duo.
The ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup will offer both players an opportunity to bolster their leadership credentials while helping younger teammates manage the pressure of a multi‑team competition.
Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi headline batting line‑up
Abhishek Sharma is one of the standout names in the India A squad. Known for his aggressive approach at the top of the order, the left‑handed opener can put pressure on opposition bowlers from the first overs.
Teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s inclusion has generated significant buzz. The fearless stroker has attracted attention for his bold strokeplay, and the tournament will give him another platform to showcase his abilities against top‑class opponents.
Prabhsimran Singh and Kumar Kushagra are the selected wicket‑keeping options. Rinku Singh adds finishing power, while Suryansh Shedge provides another middle‑order depth option.
With several players capable of accelerating the scoring rate, India A possesses the batting depth needed for 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 resume competitive action after an injury‑hit international period. His presence bolsters India A’s pace attack and brings valuable experience to the 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, offering a range of bowling combinations.
Kotian’s recent performances in domestic cricket for Mumbai, highlighted by his off‑spin and batting ability, make him a valuable asset, especially in conditions that demand control and adaptability.
The inclusion of multiple spin‑bowling options gives captain Tilak Varma 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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