The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially set the stage for the next generation of women cricketers, announcing a powerful 15-member India A squad for the upcoming Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026. Scheduled to take place in Thailand from February 13 to February 22, the tournament serves as a critical bridge between domestic excellence and international stardom.

Radha Yadav captain India A in Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026

Leading the charge is the seasoned all-rounder Radha Yadav. With over 100 T20I wickets to her name and the experience of being a 2025 ODI World Cup winner, Radha’s appointment as captain signals India’s intent to retain their continental crown. Her leadership will be vital as India A looks to defend the title they won during the inaugural edition in Hong Kong three years ago. Radha, known for her electric fielding and tactical acumen, will lead a group that features a blend of WPL stars and domestic heavyweights. The tournament kicks off for the ‘Women in Blue’ on February 13 against the UAE, but all eyes are already fixed on the high-octane clash against Pakistan A on February 15.

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India’s 15-member squad: A mix of WPL firepower and young talent

The selection committee has curated a roster that rewards recent form, particularly from the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026. Among the standout inclusions is 16-year-old sensation Deeya Yadav, who recently made history as the youngest debutant in WPL history. While Deeya and wicketkeeper Mamta M are included subject to fitness clearances from the BCCI Centre of Excellence, their presence underscores the youth-centric vision of the squad.

The batting department looks formidable with the inclusion of Vrinda Dinesh and Anushka Sharma, the latter having recently turned heads with her aggressive strokeplay for Gujarat Giants. The spin department, a traditional Indian strength, remains lethal with Minnu Mani and Tanuja Kanwer supporting Radha. As the defending champions, India A will enter the competition as heavy favourites. However, with rising powers like Nepal and UAE in their group, the road to the final in Bangkok will require clinical consistency.

India A squad for Women’s Asia Cup Rising Star 2026:

Humairaa Kaazi, Vrinda Dinesh, Anushka Sharma, Deeya Yadav, Tejal Hasabnis, Nandani Kashyap (wk), Mamta M (wk), Radha Yadav (c), Sonia Mendhiya, Minnu Mani, Tanuja Kanwer, Prema Rawat, Saima Thakor, Jintamani Kalita, Nandani Sharma.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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