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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the India A squad for the ACC Men’s Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026 on Monday. Several young players will be playing to impress and book a spot in the World Cup. Tilak Varma is named as the captain of the squad, with Rajat Patidar as his deputy. The 15-member side will compete in the 50-over tournament to be held in Doha, Qatar, from 19 to 29 November.
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The squad blends established India A performers with exciting emerging talent. It includes Abhishek Sharma, teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, wicketkeepers Prabhsimran Singh and Kumar Kushagra, Rinku Singh, Suryansh Shedge, Shahbaz Ahmed, Vipraj Nigam, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Harshit Rana, Prince Yadav and Arshad Khan.
India A squad announced for Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026, Tilak Varma captain, Sooryavanshi, Abhishek & young players eye 2027 World Cup spots
The announcement comes as India continues to build depth ahead of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Selectors have prioritised players who have shown consistency in domestic cricket and limited-overs opportunities at the A level, giving them a high-stakes platform against regional rivals. India A have been drawn in Group B alongside Pakistan A, the United Arab Emirates and Nepal. Group A consists of Bangladesh A, Sri Lanka A, Afghanistan A and Hong Kong, China.
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 at the West End Park International Stadium. India open against Nepal on 20 November at West End Park International Stadium, face Pakistan A in a high-profile clash on 22 November at the same venue, and conclude the group stage against the UAE on 24 November at the University of Doha for Science and Technology.
Tilka Varma to lead the squad
Tilak Varma’s appointment as captain reflects his growing stature. The stunning left-hander has impressed in both white-ball formats for India and has previously led India A sides with composure. Rajat Patidar, a proven middle-order force and successful domestic captain, provides experience and leadership support. The presence of Rinku Singh adds finishing power, while Abhishek Sharma offers explosive opening options.
All eyes on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Particular attention will focus on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the teenage sensation of cricket. The young left-hander has generated significant excitement with his aggressive batting in domestic and age-group cricket. His inclusion signals the BCCI’s willingness to accelerate the development of exceptional teenage talent.
Harshit Rana and others to strengthen pace attack
Fast bowler Harshit Rana and left-arm pacer Arshad Khan strengthen the pace attack, while spin options including Shahbaz Ahmed, Vipraj Nigam, Harsh Dubey and Tanush Kotian give the side variety on what are expected to be true Doha pitches. The Rising Stars Asia Cup serves as an important development pathway. Unlike the senior Asia Cup, it is contested primarily by A teams and emerging players, offering competitive 50-over cricket against Asian opposition. Performances here frequently influence senior selection, particularly for the middle order, seam bowling and finishing roles that India continue to monitor closely ahead of 2027.
The India-Pakistan A encounter on 22 November is likely to draw the largest attention. Even at A level, the rivalry generates intensity and provides valuable experience in high-pressure environments. A strong showing against Nepal and the UAE will be equally critical for India A to secure a semi-final berth. BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia issued the media advisory confirming the squad and fixtures.
The tournament is being hosted by the Qatar Cricket Association, with matches split between West End Park International Stadium and the University of Doha for Science and Technology ground. For several players, this competition represents a clear opportunity to force their way into the national conversation. With the 2027 World Cup cycle underway, consistent performances in Doha could accelerate careers.
Tilak Varma’s side will be expected to play positive, high-tempo cricket while adapting to conditions and the demands of a short, intense group stage. As the squad prepares to travel, focus will shift to fitness, net sessions and tactical planning. India A enter the tournament as one of the stronger sides on paper, but success will depend on converting talent into results against determined opposition. The coming weeks in Doha will offer both a competitive challenge and a valuable showcase for India’s next generation of white-ball cricketers.
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