Delhi announce SMAT 2026 squad featuring Ishant Sharma, Priyansh Arya

Delhi announce SMAT 2026 squad featuring Ishant Sharma, Priyansh Arya

Delhi Announce 16-Member Squad for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2026

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has named a 16-player squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2026, with all-rounder Ayush Badoni appointed captain. The domestic T20 competition runs from November 14 to December 6, bringing together 38 teams across Elite and Plate groups.

Delhi’s selection stands out for its blend of emerging batting talent and a high-profile pace attack. Veteran fast bowler Ishant Sharma is included alongside India quicks Harshit Rana and Mayank Yadav, giving the side a mix of experience, aggression and raw speed. The squad also features several promising batters, two wicketkeeping options and a pair of specialist spinners.

Ishant Sharma, Harshit Rana and Mayank Yadav Head Delhi’s Pace Attack

The fast-bowling group is likely to be one of Delhi’s biggest talking points in the tournament. Ishant brings extensive experience across domestic and international cricket, while Harshit Rana offers a lively, attacking option. Mayank Yadav, known for his exceptional pace, adds another dimension to the unit when available and fit to play.

Simarjeet Singh provides further depth, giving captain Badoni another seam-bowling choice as he weighs up conditions and match-ups. In a short-format competition where teams often need to defend totals under pressure, Delhi’s range of pace options could prove valuable. The challenge will be managing workloads and finding the right combination for each fixture.

Batting and wicketkeeping options

Delhi’s batting group includes Badoni, Priyansh Arya, Sarthak Ranjan, Yash Dhull, Ayush Doseja, Himmant Singh and Manoj Rawat. The selection offers the captain a number of combinations, with players who can contribute at different stages of an innings. Strong starts in the powerplay and the ability to accelerate at the death will be important in a tournament where even small scoring differences can affect net run rate and qualification prospects.

Tejasvi and Anuj Rawat have been named as wicketkeeping options. Their inclusion gives the selectors flexibility in the playing XI, depending on form, team balance and the role required behind the stumps. In T20 cricket, a wicketkeeper’s value can extend well beyond glovework, particularly when they can add depth to the batting order.

Spin choices for the group stage

Suyash Sharma and Digvesh Rathi are Delhi’s specialist spin options. Their ability to control the middle overs could be especially important against teams with powerful top orders. On surfaces that offer grip or slow down as matches progress, the pair may also give Badoni a way to vary the attack and disrupt a batter’s rhythm.

Delhi’s Full 16-Player SMAT 2026 Squad

Ayush Badoni (captain), Priyansh Arya, Sarthak Ranjan, Yash Dhull, Ayush Doseja, Tejasvi (wicketkeeper), Anuj Rawat (wicketkeeper), Himmant Singh, Manoj Rawat, Keshav Dabas, Suyash Sharma, Digvesh Rathi, Ishant Sharma, Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav and Simarjeet Singh.

Nitish Rana’s Omission Draws Attention

One of the most notable aspects of the announcement is the absence of experienced batter Nitish Rana. His omission is likely to prompt discussion among Delhi supporters, given his previous role in the state side and his experience in the T20 format. The squad instead gives opportunities to a group of younger and developing players, with the selectors appearing to have prioritised a fresh mix of options for the campaign.

Selection decisions do not necessarily indicate a long-term change in a player’s standing, but they can reshape a team’s immediate plans. Delhi will need the chosen batters to make the most of their opportunities, particularly in a competitive group where consistency can be decisive.

Delhi’s SMAT 2026 Fixtures and Group Challenge

Delhi have been placed in Elite Group B, alongside Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Punjab, Saurashtra and Railways. The group includes several established domestic sides, making a strong start especially important. Delhi open their campaign against Jammu and Kashmir in Indore on November 14, before facing Punjab at the same venue on November 16.

The opening fixtures will offer an early test of Delhi’s balance and adaptability. A positive result in the first match could help build confidence, while the contest against Punjab is expected to provide a demanding follow-up. With multiple teams competing for progression, each group-stage match will carry significance—not only for points, but also for net run rate and momentum.

Delhi’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Record

Delhi have won the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy once, claiming the title in the 2017–18 season. Led by Pradeep Sangwan, they defeated Rajasthan by 41 runs in the final at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The team also reached the semi-finals in 2009–10, but has found it difficult to return to the knockout stages in more recent editions.

The upcoming campaign gives Delhi an opportunity to revive that record. The squad has notable pace resources and a range of batting choices, but success will depend on how quickly the players settle into their roles. T20 tournaments often reward teams that combine attacking intent with disciplined execution: batters must convert starts, bowlers need to limit boundary opportunities, and fielding standards can decide close games.

SMAT 2026 Prediction: What Delhi Must Get Right

Any prediction about Delhi’s prospects will depend on player availability, form and how the side performs in its opening matches. On paper, the pace attack gives the team a potentially strong point of difference, while Badoni’s leadership will be central to balancing the XI. If the batters provide reliable starts and the spinners manage the middle overs effectively, Delhi could become a difficult opponent in Elite Group B.

The main question is whether the squad can turn individual promise into consistent team performances. Delhi have the talent to challenge for a place in the later stages, but their route will not be straightforward against a strong field. Their campaign begins in Indore on November 14, with supporters watching closely to see whether this new-look group can build momentum and make a serious push for the SMAT 2026 knockouts.

Latest News