Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has identified two exciting young talents — women’s batting sensation Pratika Rawal and men’s middle-order hitter Tilak Verma — as players to watch out for in 2026. Speaking on JioHotstar’s ‘Follow the Blues,’ Uthappa emphasized their potential to make a major impact as India chases three ICC trophies this year: the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, and the ICC U19 World Cup 2026.

Pratika Rawal, who missed parts of last year’s Women’s World Cup due to injury, has already made a name for herself with consistent performances. In 24 ODIs, she has scored 1,110 runs at an average of 50.45, including two centuries and seven fifties in 23 innings, with a strike rate above 82.

During her debut Women’s World Cup last year, Pratika scored 308 runs in seven matches at an average of 51.33, including a century and a fifty, before an injury ruled her out of the semifinals and final. Uthappa highlighted her resilience and potential to return stronger this year, expecting her to break records and make a major impact for the Women in Blue.

Tilak Verma, a dynamic number three for India in men’s cricket, has been exceptional in T20Is. He has scored 1,183 runs in 40 T20I matches at an average of 49.29, including two centuries and six fifties. His standout performances include two centuries against South Africa away in late 2024 and a calm, composed 69* while chasing 147 in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan.

While his ODI record is limited, with 68 runs in four matches, Tilak finished last year with 567 runs in 20 T20I innings at an average of 47.25 and a strike rate of 129.15, including four fifties and a best of 73. Uthappa expressed confidence in Tilak’s ability to achieve extraordinary performances in 2026.

With Pratika Rawal and Tilak Verma leading the charge in their respective formats, Indian cricket fans will be eagerly watching their performances across major tournaments this year.