Adam Zampa picks his best all-time T20 XI; no place for MS Dhoni

Selecting the best all-time XI in T20 cricket is one of the toughest exercises for any player or expert. The format has evolved rapidly over the last two decades, with different eras producing different types of match-winners. Some players dominated powerplays, others thrived in finishing roles, while bowlers adapted with variations, mystery spin, and pinpoint death bowling. Add to that the global spread of leagues like the IPL, Big Bash League, and other franchise tournaments, and the challenge becomes even more complex. Every list inevitably sparks debate, especially when legendary names are left out.

Against this backdrop, Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa recently revealed his best all-time T20 XI — but with a clear caveat. Zampa picked the side only from players he has shared the field with during his career. The team, unveiled on the Willow Talk Cricket podcast ahead of the IPL 2026 season, is stacked with superstars, yet one omission has surprised fans across the cricketing world.

Adam Zampa reveals his best all-time T20 XI

Zampa’s chosen XI reflects his experiences in international cricket and global T20 leagues. The team includes explosive batters, versatile all-rounders, and a well-balanced bowling attack capable of handling high-pressure situations.

The combination highlights Zampa’s preference for power, adaptability, and proven match-winners — players who can change games within a few overs.

Dynamic openers

At the top of the order, Zampa went with two contrasting but equally iconic openers. Chris Gayle, the original T20 destroyer, brings unmatched power and intimidation. Gayle’s ability to dominate bowlers from ball one has defined T20 batting, making him an automatic choice in any all-time XI.

Partnering him is Virat Kohli, whose consistency and adaptability set him apart. While Gayle provides brute force, Kohli offers stability, strike rotation, and the ability to accelerate at will. Together, they form a balanced opening pair capable of setting or chasing any target.

Solid middle order

The middle order blends flair, innovation, and reliability. Kevin Pietersen slots in as an aggressive yet technically sound batter who thrived against both pace and spin in the shortest format. Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis adds flexibility, athleticism, and fearless stroke play, qualities highly valued in modern T20 cricket.

Completing the trio is AB de Villiers, widely regarded as one of the greatest T20 batters ever. His ability to innovate, adapt to any situation, and finish games makes him the lynchpin of Zampa’s middle order.

Star all-rounders

Zampa’s XI is powered by elite all-rounders who offer impact in multiple facets. Glenn Maxwell provides explosive batting, off-spin options, and exceptional fielding.

Alongside him is Andre Russell, one of the most feared finishers in T20 history. Russell’s power-hitting and death bowling make him a match-winner on his own. Mystery spinner Sunil Narine completes the all-round trio, offering economical bowling in the powerplay and useful lower-order hitting.

Sizzling bowling attack

The bowling unit is a mix of pace, control, and variation. Nathan Ellis brings deadly slower balls and yorkers at the death. Samuel Badree adds accuracy and control with the new ball, while Josh Hazlewood provides bounce, discipline, and big-match temperament.

Also READ: Venkatesh Iyer reveals his all-time T20 playing XI ahead of IPL 2026; no place for Virat Kohli

No place for MS Dhoni raises eyebrows

The most talked-about aspect of Zampa’s XI is the absence of MS Dhoni. Given Dhoni’s legendary T20 résumé — multiple IPL titles, countless match-winning finishes, and his calm leadership — the omission is surprising. Dhoni boasts a track record few can match. His influence in high-pressure chases and his tactical acumen behind the stumps have long made him a staple in discussions around the greatest T20 players of all time.

Zampa’s selection criteria were clear: he only picked players he has personally played with. However, the Australian leg-spinner has indeed played against the former India captain. Zampa made his international debut for Australia in early 2016, a period when Dhoni was still an active cricketer and India’s limited-overs captain.

Adam Zampa’s best all-time T20 XI (from players he has played with):

Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, Kevin Pietersen, Josh Inglis, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Nathan Ellis, Samuel Badree, Josh Hazlewood.

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