India have announced a strong 15-member squad for the ACC Men’s Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026 in Doha, Qatar. The team will compete as India A and format of this tournament will be of One Day, with Tilak Varma leading the side and Rajat Patidar returning as vice-captain.
The squad includes several players from India’s senior T20 setup. Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Tilak have all been selected rather than rested, suggesting the selectors have favoured a strong batting group over extensive experimentation.
Rajat Patidar returns with a leadership role
Patidar’s selection is one of the biggest developments in the announcement. He has been brought into the India A squad with the additional responsibility of serving as Tilak’s deputy.
That responsibility makes his return particularly significant. His appointment suggests the selectors continue to see value in his leadership, alongside his batting. For Patidar, this is an opportunity to strengthen his case for a return to the senior Indian team.
A productive tournament could help him move back into that conversation. The vice-captaincy also raises the possibility of him being considered for future leadership opportunities if he establishes himself in the senior setup. That remains a potential path rather than a confirmed plan, but this selection is an encouraging sign for his international prospects.
Abhishek, Vaibhav and Tilak strengthen the squad
The inclusion of Abhishek, Vaibhav and Tilak is another notable feature of the selection. Despite being part of India’s senior-team plans, all three will also take part in this India A campaign.
Their presence gives the batting group considerable strength. It also indicates that the selectors have chosen to retain familiar senior-squad options while creating opportunities for other players around them.
Rinku Singh’s return adds another experienced batting option. Shahbaz Ahmed and Suryansh Shedge have also been included, giving them a chance to remain in contention through performances at India A level.
Opportunities for Tanush Kotian and Arshad Khan
Tanush Kotian and Arshad Khan are two selections worth watching closely. Neither is a regular member of the senior Indian side, and this tournament gives them an opportunity to make a stronger impression on the selectors.
Their inclusion shows they are being considered beyond domestic and IPL cricket. Although a senior-team opportunity may not follow immediately, a strong campaign could help them build their case.
Harshit Rana is also part of the squad after regaining fitness, strengthening the pace-bowling options.
India A’s full squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026
Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma (captain), Rajat Patidar (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Kumar Kushagra (wicketkeeper), Suryansh Shedge, Shahbaz Ahmed, Vipraj Nigam, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Harshit Rana, Prince Yadav and Arshad Khan.
India A’s schedule: Pakistan clash on November 22
India A will begin their campaign against Nepal on November 20. The much-awaited meeting with Pakistan follows on November 22, before their final group fixture against the UAE on November 24.
| Date | Match |
|---|---|
| November 20, 2026 | India A vs Nepal |
| November 22, 2026 | India A vs Pakistan |
| November 24, 2026 | India A vs UAE |
