India’s build-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup stepped into full gear on Wednesday evening as Rohit Sharma unveiled the national team’s brand-new T20I jersey during the mid-innings break of the second ODI against South Africa in Raipur. The former India captain, now the tournament’s brand ambassador, was joined by young batter Tilak Varma for an energetic on-field reveal that instantly electrified the crowd.
The moment carried a touch of nostalgia and a dash of modern flair. A life-sized version of the jersey was unfurled across the Raipur outfield, drawing loud roars from fans who treated the reveal almost like a curtain-raiser to India’s World Cup campaign.
A blend of modern engineering and 90s nostalgia
Designed by Adidas in partnership with the BCCI, the new kit brings back memories of India’s iconic 90s stripes, but with technology that clearly belongs to the future. The jersey retains the much-loved neckline from India’s triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup kit — a subtle reminder of where the team is coming from, and where it aims to go next.
Adidas has used its latest CLIMACOOL+ body-mapped fabric, engineered with 3D stretch materials and strategic perforation zones for maximum ventilation. With the 2026 tournament expected to feature warmer, more humid spells, the jersey prioritises quick sweat-wicking and mobility, giving players the comfort they need for demanding night games in India and Sri Lanka.
Rohit Sharma: ‘We all wear the same colours’
Rohit, who guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title, reflected emotionally on his journey with the Indian team.
“We won our first World Cup in 2007 and then waited more than 15 years to lift the next one. It’s been a long road, but every moment has been worth it. With the World Cup at home, it’s going to be a special tournament. This jersey reminds us that whether you’re in the stands or on the field, we all wear the same colours and believe in the same dream,” Rohit said during the presentation.
Adidas India GM Vijay Chauhan echoed that sentiment, saying every jersey design is built on the story and spirit of Indian cricket and its passionate supporters.
Key players missing but India’s focus remains sharp
Current T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav couldn’t attend the ceremony due to domestic commitments in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, while vice-captain Shubman Gill continues rehab for a neck injury at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Despite those absences, the atmosphere at Raipur made it clear: the countdown to the World Cup has officially begun.
India’s T20 World Cup path
India will open their World Cup campaign on February 7 in Mumbai, facing the USA at the Wankhede Stadium. Placed in Group A, India will compete alongside Pakistan, USA, Netherlands and Namibia, with the top two advancing to the Super Eight stage. The tournament will run from February 7 to March 8, with the final scheduled either in Ahmedabad or Colombo depending on Pakistan’s qualification path.
With the jersey now unveiled, the focus shifts to combinations, conditions and momentum — but on Wednesday night in Raipur, it was a reminder of how deeply cricket connects the country. A new kit, a new campaign, and a nation ready to rally behind its team once more.
