Raipur: Former India captain Rohit Sharma unveiled the national team’s latest T20I jersey on Wednesday during the mid-innings break of the second ODI against South Africa at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium. Rohit was joined by Tilak Varma for the on-stage presentation, where BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and adidas representatives officially handed over the new World Cup kits to the duo, marking a significant moment ahead of India’s preparations for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.
A modern design inspired by a nostalgic era
The newly launched T20I jersey blends a performance-driven modern silhouette with bold, retro-inspired aesthetics. Drawing heavily from the iconic striped India kits of the 1990s, the design pays tribute to a golden era of Indian cricket fashion while incorporating cutting-edge innovations.
The jersey retains the celebrated neckline from the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning kit, symbolising continuity and pride. Adidas has introduced fresh pattern architecture throughout the fabric, giving players a contemporary look while maintaining a visual link to India’s cricketing heritage.
To help athletes perform at peak levels under India’s warm-weather conditions, the jersey features body-mapped, 3D-engineered mechanical stretch materials. The enhanced CLIMACOOL+ fabric technology improves sweat-wicking capacity, ensuring players remain dry for longer periods. In addition, perforated 3-stripe tapes are integrated into the sleeves for superior breathability, and mesh ventilation zones placed across the torso and trims offer high levels of air permeability—crucial for extended on-field performance during day-night matches.
Rohit reflects on India’s T20 legacy
Speaking at the ceremony, Rohit Sharma recounted India’s long journey in the T20 format, from the historic 2007 World Cup triumph to the title-winning run in 2024.
“It’s been a long journey. We won our first World Cup in 2007, and we had to wait more than 15 years to win the next one. It’s been a long road with plenty of ups and downs, but it felt great to lift the trophy again,” Rohit said. “Now, with the World Cup happening in India, it’s going to be an exciting tournament. My best wishes are always with the team, and I’m sure everyone will be behind them.”
Rohit, who captained India to their second T20 World Cup title in 2024, has also been appointed as the tournament ambassador for the 2026 edition. His presence at the launch added significance to the event, particularly as the squad gears up for a major global competition on home soil.
Key players unavailable during unveiling
India’s current T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav was not present for the jersey launch. He is currently in Lucknow, representing Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, with fixtures scheduled on either side of the ceremony.
Vice-captain Shubman Gill, recovering from a neck injury sustained earlier in the season, continues rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. His availability for India’s early preparation camps remains subject to medical clearance.
India’s road to the 2026 T20 World Cup
The 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, to be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will run from 7 February to 8 March. The tournament features 20 teams, including debutants Italy—a notable step in cricket’s global expansion.
India, the defending champions, have been placed in Group A and will open their campaign on 7 February against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The top two teams from each group will move to the Super Eight stage, followed by semi-finals.
The final on 8 March is scheduled to be held either in Ahmedabad or Colombo, with the final venue dependent on Pakistan’s qualification pathway.
A jersey that blends legacy and ambition
The newly launched kit represents more than just a uniform—it symbolises India’s cricketing evolution, merging the nostalgia of the past with the performance demands of the present. With advanced fabric technology, a culturally resonant design, and the symbolism of Rohit Sharma’s presence, the jersey marks India’s readiness for a major home campaign.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 T20 World Cup, the launch of the new T20I kit sets the tone for a high-energy, high-expectation season ahead. The team’s preparations, combined with widespread fan enthusiasm, underline India’s determination to defend its world title in familiar conditions.