We head into the new year of 2026 with Indian cricket as strong as ever. By most standards, 2025 was a rewarding year on the field. India have seen success, produced memorable victories and given fans plenty of moments to relish, whether through the senior stalwarts or the promise shown by the next generation.
But on reflection, nature also requires honesty. Looking back over the past year, there have been several instances where fans and even experts have been left confused and searching for answers. This is not to say that cricket is doing badly in the country, or that the year should be viewed negatively. Far from it. Still, there were times when the decisions were difficult to understand, and at times the people most emotionally invested in the game felt unheard. India had an overall successful 2025 and Asia Cup triumph was one of the highlights. (AP photo)
Not every call needs to be judged through the lens of revenue or presentation. Optics matter and financial strength has helped Indian cricket grow. But sports also thrive when decisions are made with the long-term health of the game in mind. Respecting the intelligence and patience of the fan base is part of that responsibility.
Cricket remains the biggest sport in the country, and with this status comes influence. At the start of 2026, perhaps there is scope for a broader outlook that not only strengthens Indian cricket internally, but also recognizes its role within the wider sporting ecosystem. Whether through intent, support or leadership, there is an opportunity to ensure the game continues to grow in a way that feels thoughtful, inclusive and rooted in its core values.
For me, the outlook to 2026 is not about putting up signs or asking for drastic change. It’s about a few simple hopes, shaped by years of watching the game and worrying about where it will go next. Little things maybe, but things that can quietly affect how decisions are made, how players are supported and how the sport is felt by those who watch it closely. What follows is less of a checklist but more of a reflection of what I’d like Indian cricket to take hold of over the course of the year.
BETTER TRANSPARENCY OF SELECTION
The choice was rarely about a single decision; it’s the pattern these decisions form over time. In recent times, certain players have been given extended runs in the side just in the name of continuity to find themselves on the sidelines when the pressure is on. However, opportunities often came at the expense of players who were clearly in form or under-performing, so the logic of these challenges remains open. Shubman Gill was dropped from the T20 World Cup squad despite being VC. (AP photo)
This is not to deny patience or encourage talent. Both are essential in international cricket. But clarity is just as important. Players perform better when roles are defined, timelines are understood, and selection is earned. Even for fans, confidence grows when decisions seem consistent and explainable. The selection may not be perfect in 2026, but it must appear transparent, purposeful and rooted in form and planning rather than uncertainty.
RECOGNITION TO DOMESTIC CRICKET
Domestic cricket remains the bedrock of Indian cricket, yet it often feels like it operates on the fringes. One area that needs to be re-evaluated is coverage. Reports of plans to introduce DRS in domestic matches – at a high cost per match – highlight the resources available. If such investments are possible, there is also room to improve broadcast and digital coverage. Not every game will bring in big numbers, but visibility matters. Even limited access helps fans stay connected to their home circuit and understand who is playing. Both Rohit and Kohli brought domestic cricket back into focus with their VHT comeback. (PTI Photo)
A recent example was offered by the Vijay Hazare Trophywhere there was a lot of interest, but access was limited, so fans couldn’t watch key performances. In addition to coverage, selection must continue to evaluate home performance. Recently, fast-tracking often takes precedence over the permanent form. In order for the home system to maintain its credibility, the performances there must work in a meaningful way. Otherwise, it risks sending the message that the path itself is no longer trusted.
HONESTY AT PRESS CONFERENCES
Press conferences are often the only window fans have to understand the thinking behind key decisions. Over time, however, that window began to seem narrower. Familiar explanations like “it’s about managing the workload”, “we just felt it was the right combination for the conditions” or “it’s very much in our plans for the future” are offered regularly but often explain very little.
It’s not about demanding full transparency or putting the individual in the spotlight. It’s about context. A brief explanation of why the decision was made at that moment, what it means for the player involved, or how it fits into the larger plan can be crucial. Fans are generally willing to accept tough calls when they feel informed rather than diverted.
In 2026, clearer and more thoughtful on-stage communication could help restore a sense of connection between decision-makers and supporters – making conversations feel less guarded and the game itself more shared.
IMPROVE THE FAN EXPERIENCE
Cricket fans deserve more than just entertainment for a match– they deserve an experience that keeps them engaged, informed and valued. For example, a commentary can strike a better balance between masala and insight. While Navjot Singh Sidhu’s color shots add flavor, there is a huge opportunity to combine this with sharp analysis, as provided by Ian Bishop, and even use data to provide context to the performance. This should go beyond English commentary into regional languages and ensure that every fan has access to informed and engaging stories.
In addition to broadcasting, the stadium experience also needs an upgrade. Comfortable seating, better food and drink options, and smoother entry and exit protocols can make attending matches more enjoyable. A fan who feels respected both in the comments and in the stands is much more likely to stay loyal to the game.
BREAK THE FANWARE
Cricket in India is more than just a sport – it is a common passion that unites millions of people. Yet in recent years, fanwars between supporters of different players or teams have grown, often overpowering the love of the game itself. I hope that by 2026 cricket culture will move towards healthier debates and mutual respect. Fans should be able to celebrate their heroes without feeling the need to belittle others. Social media, comments and fan communities play a role in this. If the focus shifts back to appreciating performances, celebrating emerging talent and enjoying the nuances of the game, the experience of watching cricket in India can become much more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
DEFINE THE LINES FOR CRICKET AND POLITICS
Cricket has always been more than just a game in India – it inspires passion, debate and sometimes controversy. But if cricket is going to take political or social stands, it should do so uniformly, not selectively. I hope that by 2026, the cricket community will consistently respond to serious social issues, rather than only talking about certain incidents.
For example, the Bengaluru stampede in 2025 saw players and authorities immediately step in to support fans and families. However, the ongoing violence in Manipur remains largely unaddressed, highlighting selective engagement. Fans want cricket to be principled, empathetic and consistent in its actions. Ensuring unity in political or social responses will strengthen the game’s credibility and strengthen its role as a unifying force off the field.
– The end
Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
January 2, 2026
