T20 World Cup 2026: Canada confirm 15-member squad, Dilpreet Bajwa named captain

Published - 14 Jan 2026, 21:23 IST | Updated - 14 Jan 2026, 21:26 IST

Canada will make their second appearance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, having featured in the tournament for the first time in 2024. The North American side will be eager to leave a lasting impression in the upcoming edition, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in 2026. During their inaugural campaign, Canada finished fourth in their group, managing to collect three points. Their lone victory came in the form of a memorable 12-run win over Ireland.

Canada secured qualification for the 2026 edition by winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Americas Regional Final. The team delivered a dominant performance throughout the tournament, winning all six of their matches to finish at the top of the standings and seal their berth for the global event.

The bowling attack played a crucial role during the Americas Regional Qualifier. Off-spinner Shivam Sharma emerged as the standout performer, claiming 11 wickets at an impressive average of 7.81. He received strong support from left-arm pacer Kaleem Sana, who picked up 10 wickets at an average of 7.50. The Canadian team will hope the bowling duo can continue their fine form on the big stage in Indian conditions.

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On the batting front, Canada boasts the services of aggressive batter Nicholas Kirton, who provides stability and firepower in the middle order. He is expected to be well supported by fellow left-hander Yuvraj Samra, who has an impressive strike rate of 160.72 and is capable of turning games quickly.

Canada face a tough challenge right from the outset, having been placed in a demanding group alongside South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and the UAE. They will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against South Africa in Ahmedabad on February 9, 2026.

Dilpreet Bajwa (C), Ajayveer Hundal, Ansh Patel, Dilon Heyliger, Harsh Thaker, Jaskarandeep Buttar, Kaleem Sana, Kanwarpal Tathgur, Navneet Dhaliwal, Nicholas Kirton, Ravinderpal Singh, Saad Bin Zafar, Shivam Sharma, Shreyas Movva, Yuvraj Samra.