The Twenty20 World Cup begins in India and Sri Lanka on Saturday, with the fast-paced format expected to throw up standout performers and potential future stars.
Several young and in-form players are set to play key roles for their teams in conditions that traditionally favour aggressive batting and skilful spin bowling.
India’s opening batter Sharma enters the tournament as the world’s top-ranked T20 batter and the format’s highest strike-rate holder at 194.74. In 38 international matches, he averages 37.05 with two centuries and eight half-centuries. Sharma was player of the tournament at the 2025 Asia Cup, where he struck three consecutive fifties at a strike-rate of 200, and is seen as central to India’s hopes of defending their 2024 title.
England’s 22-year-old all-rounder Jacob Bethell has drawn attention for his adaptability across formats. After a promising Indian Premier League debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and a Test century against Australia in Sydney, Bethell has shown his value in subcontinent conditions with aggressive play against spin and useful left-arm bowling, including figures of 4 for 11 against Sri Lanka in England’s final match before the World Cup.
South Africa’s Dewald Brevis returns to the spotlight after rebuilding his game in domestic cricket. Nicknamed “Baby AB” after scoring 162 off 57 balls in 2022, Brevis regained momentum during the 2025 IPL with Chennai Super Kings, earning player of the match honours against the Gujarat Titans. His power hitting makes him one to watch.
Afghanistan’s left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad brings vast T20 experience despite his age, with nearly 200 matches across global leagues. He has outperformed Rashid Khan in the IPL over the past two seasons and is expected to be effective on spin-friendly pitches.
New Zealand’s Finn Allen rounds out the list after overcoming early inconsistency. His 137 against Pakistan in 2024 and a prolific Big Bash League season underline his importance as the Black Caps chase their first T20 World Cup title.