T20 World Cup 2026: 5 Players who might play their last T20 World Cup

The excitement surrounding the T20 World Cup 2026 is already building, with all 20 participating teams preparing rigorously to compete for the ultimate prize. The tournament, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7, promises high-octane cricket and memorable performances.

While several young players are expected to make their T20 World Cup debut and announce themselves on the global stage, this edition could also mark the final appearance for a few seasoned campaigners. Due to age or form some experienced stars may be playing their last T20 World Cup. 

Here are the five players who might play their last T20 World Cup

Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan)

Afghanistan veteran Mohammad Nabi has been one of the most influential figures in the country’s cricketing rise. From Afghanistan’s early days on the international circuit to becoming a competitive force in world cricket, Nabi has played a pivotal role with both bat and ball. At 41 years of age, the all-rounder is nearing the twilight of his career, and with the next T20 World Cup scheduled for 2028, it appears unlikely he will feature again at 43.

In T20Is, Nabi has scored 2,430 runs in 137 innings, including seven half-centuries, while also claiming 104 wickets in 135 innings with three four-wicket hauls. Beyond numbers, his leadership stands out, having captained Afghanistan in three T20 World Cups and helped establish the team as a fearless competitor on the global stage.

Glenn Maxwell (Australia)

One of the most destructive batters in modern white-ball cricket, Glenn Maxwell has been a match-winner for Australia across formats. He is known for his unconventional stroke play, ability to score at breathtaking speed, and often thrives on innovation.

While his aggressive approach has occasionally led to inconsistency, it has also delivered unforgettable moments, including his iconic T20I century against India in Bengaluru in 2019. In T20Is, Maxwell has amassed 2,835 runs in 115 innings, with five centuries and 12 half-centuries, along with 49 wickets.

Adil Rashid (England)

England’s white-ball resurgence over the past decade owes much to Adil Rashid. At a time when England struggled for a reliable leg-spinner, Rashid stepped up and became one of the most consistent performers in limited-overs cricket. His ability to take wickets in the middle overs while maintaining control has been crucial to England’s success.

Rashid is England’s leading T20I wicket-taker, having picked up 145 wickets in 127 innings, including four four-wicket hauls, at an economy rate below eight. With age not on his side, the 2026 T20 World Cup is likely to be Rashid’s last.

Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan)

Fakhar Zaman has been a vital cog in Pakistan’s batting lineup over the years. The left-handed opener, known for his high backlift and raw power, has often been Pakistan’s go-to player in high-pressure situations. While his T20I numbers may not be as impressive as his ODI record, his impact has frequently gone beyond statistics.

In 106 T20I innings, Fakhar has scored 2,365 runs, including 13 half-centuries. With Pakistan exploring younger opening options and Fakhar in his late 30s, this World Cup could represent his final chance to shine on the global T20 stage.

David Miller (South Africa)

South African star David Miller has long been associated with explosive finishing and fearless batting. He is strong off both feet, capable of clearing any boundary, and his T20I career gained momentum later than expected, though he has remained a consistent performer in leagues such as the IPL.

In 117 T20 Internationals, Miller has scored 2,630 runs, including two centuries and eight half-centuries. With age and form becoming key considerations for South Africa moving forward, the 2026 T20 World Cup might be Miller’s final appearance at the pinnacle of international T20 cricket.