As the T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, Mumbai native Saurabh Netravalkar, now representing the USA, shares his excitement about playing at the legendary Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The USA will kick off their tournament journey with a match against India at Wankhede on February 7. Netravalkar expressed that this occasion will be deeply emotional for him, marking a significant moment of reconnection with his roots.
“I can’t predict how I’ll feel there, but it’s definitely an emotional moment for me. It feels like a full-circle experience since I began my cricket journey in Mumbai, then stepped away from the sport before moving to the US. I never imagined I would play cricket again, let alone at this level,” he shared.
He reminisced about his early days in Mumbai, recalling how he played alongside stars like Suryakumar Yadav and Shardul Thakur in a first-class match back in 2013. Netravalkar also represented India in the 2010 U-19 World Cup.
When asked if he had envisioned playing in front of his family and friends at Wankhede, he replied, “In a way, yes. Growing up in Mumbai, I always dreamed of representing my country, and Wankhede was a significant part of that dream. We’ve trained there since our under-15 days.”
The 34-year-old pacer expressed gratitude for this opportunity while representing the USA, saying, “I’m excited to have my family and friends there. I’m looking forward to giving my best.”
The USA has been drawn in Group A for the T20 World Cup 2026, facing teams like India, Pakistan, Namibia, and the Netherlands. The tournament will officially begin with a match between Pakistan and the Netherlands on February 7 at the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Sri Lanka.