Harbhajan Singh questions selectors over RCB star’s ‘unfair’ omission from India’s T20I squad for England and Ireland 2026 series

Harbhajan Singh questioned the Indian selectors for overlooking Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) skipper Rajat Patidar for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland and England. He felt that it was unfair to snub the batter despite his impactful performances in the recently concluded IPL 2026.

Patidar had a memorable IPL campaign. He became only the third captain after MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma to win back-to-back titles. The 33-year-old did a commendable job with the bat as well, aggregating 501 runs across 14 innings at a strike rate of 192.69.

Unimpressed by Patidar’s omission, Harbhajan wrote on X after the squad announcement:

“Sad no Rajat Patidar in the indian squad. What else he needs to do ? Scored 501 runs strike rate almost 200 . Unfair. Easily the best middle order in India . Proper striker with good technique.”

While Rajat Patidar failed to find a spot in India’s T20I team, Shreyas Iyer returned after over two years and took over the captaincy reins from Suryakumar Yadav. Hard-hitting opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi and fast bowler Prince Yadav earned their maiden T20I call-ups.

“There will always be players who miss out, but you can only pick 15” – Ajit Agarkar opens up on India’s T20I squad

India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed that several players were discussed during the selection meeting. He noted that India have a big talent pool, with many names meriting a place in the side.

He remarked that a few names are bound to miss out, as they can only pick 15. Agarkar said (via India Today):

“We discuss a host of players. You don’t just sit there and put down 15 names. There are a lot of good players in India. If you’ve watched the IPL or followed domestic cricket, there are plenty of players who look good enough to walk into the team. But the players already in the team are doing well too. We won a World Cup not too long ago. We think we’ve picked a really good squad. There will always be players who miss out, but you can only pick 15 and we’re very happy with this group.”

Patidar has 3389 runs to his name from 106 T20 innings at an average of 35.30 and a strike rate of 160.08. He is currently captaining Gwalior Cheetahs in the ongoing Madhya Pradesh Premier League 2026.

Edited by Aditya Suketu Desai