India is the strongest, everyone fears playing against the side: Abhishek Nayar ahead of T20 World Cup

The last time the Indian men’s team won an ICC title—the Champions Trophy—Abhishek Nayar was the assistant coach. As another ICC event—the T20 World Cup—beckons, Nayar believes India is the team to beat.

“We are the strongest side. I’m not saying it for the sake of saying it, but we have played cricket like the strongest side, and everyone fears playing India anywhere in the world in this format,” he said.

The toss is expected to play a significant role, feels the 42-year-old. “You’re playing in India at this time of the year (sic). If the dew sets in and Surya(kumar) Yadav starts winning tosses, you’re winning the trophy,” he added.

The expectations may be high of the defending champion, but captain Suryakumar’s form remains a concern. He could only score 213 runs across 20 matches and 18 innings in 2025, averaging just over 14. His last half-century came way back in October 2024, 23 innings ago, when he scored 75 against Bangladesh in Hyderabad.

Published on Jan 16, 2026