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The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is all set to kick off on February 7, with India and Sri Lanka jointly hosting the showpiece event. Expectations are sky-high as the subcontinent prepares to welcome the world’s best T20 stars, promising packed stadiums, electric atmospheres, and a festival of cricket. With flat pitches, spin-friendly surfaces, and passionate crowds, the tournament is expected to deliver a mix of high-scoring thrillers and tense, nail-biting finishes. As teams fine-tune their combinations and players eye career-defining performances, the question on everyone’s mind is simple: who will rise above the rest and shape the narrative of the World Cup?
Who can define the T20 World Cup 2026? Eoin Morgan reveals his pick
Former England captain Eoin Morgan believes the answer could lie at the top of England’s batting order. Speaking on Sky Sports Cricket, Morgan named England opener Phil Salt as the player who has the potential to define the 2026 edition of the tournament.
Morgan highlighted how Salt’s evolution over the past couple of years has transformed him into one of the most destructive batters in the shortest format. According to the World Cup-winning skipper, Salt’s fearless approach and ability to dominate bowling attacks from the very first over make him a match-winner on his day.
“For me, it’s Phil Salt of England. I think in the last couple of years, he’s gone to a new level of destruction,” Morgan said.
He also underlined the importance of familiarity with subcontinental conditions, something Salt has already gained through franchise cricket. Morgan pointed out that Salt’s stint with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League has given him valuable confidence and clarity while batting on Indian pitches, a factor that could prove decisive in a global tournament.
“He had a good time with RCB in the IPL and confidence of playing in those conditions is vitally important. So I would say his sort of talent, will have the ability to shape the whole World Cup,” added Morgan.
Also READ: ‘We know the unpredictability’ : Eoin Morgan picks his TEAM TO BEAT for T20 World Cup 2026
Expectations high from the star batter
With England expected to rely heavily on explosive starts, the spotlight will firmly be on Salt’s shoulders. Known for his clean striking, innovative shot-making, and ability to take down both pace and spin, Salt fits perfectly into England’s aggressive T20 blueprint. His approach allows the middle order to play with freedom, often putting opposition teams on the back foot within the powerplay itself.
The conditions in India and Sri Lanka are likely to test batters with a mix of turn, heat, and pressure from partisan crowds. However, Salt’s previous experience in these environments could give him an edge over many contemporaries. If he finds consistency alongside his natural explosiveness, England could gain a significant advantage in crunch knockout matches.
