As excitement builds ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has expressed strong belief in the Indian team’s ability to deliver on the biggest stage. Known for his calm outlook and sharp understanding of the game, Dhoni feels the current squad has the right balance of experience, skill and composure to handle the intense pressure that comes with a global tournament.
Dhoni believes India’s biggest strength lies in how comfortable the players are in high-pressure situations. He feels the team benefits from clearly defined roles, with players knowing exactly what is expected from them. According to him, modern cricketers are constantly preparing, whether they are focused on batting or bowling, and this keeps them mentally switched on at all times. Dhoni feels this constant match readiness gives India a clear edge over many of their opponents.
In his view, the Indian side has all the ingredients of a dangerous T20 team. He highlighted the depth of experience within the squad, especially in this format, pointing out that many players have spent years performing under pressure. Dhoni stressed that most members of the team have been doing their assigned roles for a long time, which builds confidence and stability when matches are on the line.
Despite his optimism, Dhoni was quick to acknowledge that T20 cricket is heavily influenced by factors beyond a team’s control. One such element, which has always bothered him, is dew. He explained that dew can dramatically alter conditions during a match, often making life difficult for bowlers and placing enormous importance on the toss. According to Dhoni, this can sometimes skew the contest and take away the advantage from the better-prepared side.
He added that if teams were to compete repeatedly under neutral conditions, quality and preparation would usually prevail. However, external factors like dew can upset that balance, making outcomes less predictable even for strong teams.
Dhoni also reminded fans about the unpredictable nature of the T20 format. He noted that matches can quickly swing when a few players have an off day or when someone from the opposition produces an exceptional performance. He said that such moments can occur at any stage of the tournament, whether in the league phase or knockouts.
He emphasised the importance of players staying fit, avoiding injuries and delivering on their assigned roles.
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As the World Cup approaches, Dhoni’s message reflects confidence in India’s strength while acknowledging the fine margins that define success in T20 cricket.
