T20 World Cup: ‘Very Happy With India’s Progress, Expectations High for Title Defence,’ Says Paras Mhambrey
Former bowling coach backs India’s depth, leadership, and home advantage ahead of their title defence opener against the USA.
India, Feb 06 : India are gearing up for a landmark campaign as the defending champions prepare to begin their T20 World Cup journey at home, aiming to achieve a rare treble retaining the title, winning it for a third time, and lifting the trophy on Indian soil.
Having first claimed the crown in 2007 and ending a prolonged wait with victory in 2024, the Men in Blue enter the tournament as the top-ranked T20I side. With Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy leading the global rankings in batting and bowling respectively, the squad combines aggressive firepower with disciplined execution a formula that has delivered the best win percentage among leading teams since their last triumph.
Former bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, who was part of the 2024 championship setup, believes the current unit has the balance and experience required to go all the way again.
Expressing satisfaction with the team’s evolution, Mhambrey highlighted the importance of continuity within the squad. He noted that retaining a strong core brings both experience and tactical awareness, crucial ingredients when navigating high-pressure tournaments. According to him, the presence of fully fit, in-form players further strengthens India’s prospects.
Reflecting on the previous World Cup success, Mhambrey described the honour of being called world champions as unmatched, emphasising that such achievements are built on years of preparation rather than just performances during the tournament window.
He also pointed to the professional clarity within the group, observing that players understand their roles and have repeatedly stepped up to win matches — a hallmark of champion sides. Familiarity with the demands of global events, he added, leaves the team better prepared for another intense campaign.
Leadership under Suryakumar Yadav has drawn praise as well. Mhambrey believes the captain has adapted smoothly to the dual responsibility of guiding the side while maintaining his own batting standards. Balancing personal performance with team management can be challenging, but the skipper appears to have settled confidently into the role.
Playing at home is expected to provide a significant edge. Mhambrey identified crowd backing, knowledge of conditions, and current form as equally decisive factors. The emotional lift from home supporters, combined with tactical familiarity with pitches, could tilt key moments in India’s favour.
While refraining from naming a clear rival, he cautioned against underestimating any side in a tournament known for unpredictability. Teams such as Sri Lanka, along with others accustomed to subcontinental conditions, could emerge as strong challengers.
Still, Mhambrey’s overall outlook remains emphatic. With squad depth, variety in bowling options, and consistent performances behind them, he described his confidence level in the team as “supremely high.”
India open their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Saturday, carrying both expectation and momentum as they chase another chapter in their T20 legacy.
