Royal Challengers Bangalore opener Phil Salt has offered high praise for the Indian national team, labeling the defending champions as the strongest side heading into the T20 World Cup 2026. Salt, who is currently in Sri Lanka for a bilateral series, acknowledged the immense challenge India poses, especially when playing in their home conditions.
Salt stated that any team hoping to defeat the Men in Blue in the tournament would require "a bit of luck." His assessment underscores the dominant form India has displayed in the shortest format, having recently clinched T20I series victories against Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. The England opener also specifically lauded the aggressive batting style of Indian opener Abhishek Sharma, noting the distinct strengths both players bring to the top order.
Salt's comments highlight the respect India commands globally as they prepare to co-host and defend their title. His focus now shifts to his own international commitments before returning to the IPL circuit, where his aggressive approach will be vital for RCB.
This analysis was generated by Third Umpire using official IPL statistics and live match data.
Learn how this works →
“I think everyone’s going to need a bit of luck to beat them. I think they are by far and away the strongest team in the World Cup.”
Bowlers who took wickets at the fastest rate in 2025
Keep exploring stats tailored to Phil Salt and RCB.
The Windies scored 182/5 on the back of Shimron Hetmyer's 36-ball 64... Romario Shepherd bagging a hat-trick. He finished with career-best figures of 5/20 in three overs.
The IPL matches are approaching. KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, spokesperson Vinay and RCB representatives met me. They asked me for permission, and we have given conditional permission.
Bethell, who also was making his T20 World Cup, scored 65 runs in 35 balls, which included four fours and as many sixes.

“I think everyone’s going to need a bit of luck to beat them. I think they are by far and away the strongest team in the World Cup.”