IPL’s finest vs India’s T20 champs: TOI Dream XI to take on SKY’s WC winners
TOI presents a formidable IPL 2026 Dream XI designed to challenge the Suryakumar Yadav-led T20 World Cup champions. This squad features a potent mix of four overseas stars and Indian talent, boasting explosive openers, a stable middle order, and versatile bowlers capable of dismantling any opposition.
TOI presents an IPL 2026 pre-season Dream XI to challenge the Suryakumar Yadav-led World Cup-winning squad. With four overseas players and a core of Indian talent, the TOI XI blends explosive Powerplay hitters, a versatile middle order and multi-dimensional bowlers: PHIL SALT (RCB; overseas) Edges out Travis Head. Salt played a vital role in the title-winning run of the last two IPL champs (RCB in 2025 and KKR in 2024).
The England batter has one of the best Powerplay numbers. IPL matches: 34, Runs: 1056, Ave: 34. 06, 100s/50s: 0/10, SR: 175.
7 YASHASVI JAISWAL (RR) Brings controlled aggression. Has the rare ability to accelerate without recklessness. M: 67, Runs: 2166, Ave: 34.
38, 100s/50s: 2/15, SR: 152. 8 SHREYAS IYER (c) (PBKS) Proven IPL leader and middle-order stabiliser. Adds tactical clarity while handling match-ups.