As the T20 World Cup 2026 kicks off today, Asian origin players in T20 World Cup are stealing the spotlight. These 69 athletes from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan now represent 11 nations outside Asia, blending shared roots with global ambition. This trend matters now amid the tournament's diverse matchups, showing how Indian origin cricketers fuel T20 World Cup 2026 squads worldwide.
North America Dominates with Asian Roots
Canada and USA lead the pack, boasting 26 Asian origin players in T20 World Cup – 19 of Indian origin cricketers. Canada's squad features 13 such players, including 11 Indians, captained by Dilpreet Bajwa. This leadership twist adds thrill as they face powerhouses.
USA matches with 13 Asian talents: nine Indians like Saurabh Netravalkar and Harmeet Singh, plus three Pakistanis and Sri Lankan Shehan Jayasuriya. Their mix highlights global cricket talent exploding in North America.
UAE and Oman: Indian-Pakistani Powerhouses
UAE fields 12 Asian origin players in T20 World Cup, split seven Indians and five Pakistanis – the team's batting and bowling core. Oman tops all with 14, evenly seven Indians and seven Pakistanis. Stars like Punjab's Jatinder Singh, Gujarat's Aasheet Odedera, and Mumbai's Karan Sonawale bring desi flair to the Gulf side.
Stars Across Continents
New Zealand relies on Indian origin cricketers Rachin Ravindra (Bengaluru roots) and Ludhiana-born Ish Sodhi. South Africa's Keshav Maharaj traces to Uttar Pradesh via 1874 migration. England's trio – Rehan Ahmed, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood – reps Pakistan.
Even smaller teams shine: Italy's six include Indian Jaspreet Singh; Scotland has Afghan Zainullah Ehsan and Pakistani Safyan Sharif; Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza, Pakistan-born, remains a veteran winner.
Why This Reshapes Cricket
These 69 players (excluding India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan) could form six full XIs – nearly half the tournament! It underscores global cricket talent migration, from indentured laborers to World Cup heroes. Fans watch for upsets, like Canada challenging giants.
Expert Take: Cricket analyst Ian Bishop notes such diversity "lifts the game," echoing calls for fresh talents like Ishan Kishan in India. As matches unfold, these players prove borders fade in T20's fast world.
This T20 World Cup 2026 squads fusion promises unforgettable drama – track live for desi pride abroad!
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