England’s explosive batter Philip Salt has admitted that he’s genuinely “in awe” of India’s fearless and ever-evolving approach to T20 cricket, calling them the true global trendsetters of the format. It’s hard to disagree with him. Since lifting the T20 World Cup 2024 trophy in the Caribbean, India have been on a remarkable run, refusing to let up under the aggressive leadership of Suryakumar Yadav.

Every series has felt like a statement, and they haven’t dropped a single one since that triumphant night in the West Indies. Phil Salt, speaking on the RCB Podcast, looked back at the dramatic shift in global T20 dynamics since England’s thumping ten-wicket victory over India in the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final in Adelaide.

That night, England were the ones dictating the pace of world cricket. Chasing 169, Alex Hales and Jos Buttler produced one of the most ruthless opening stands in World Cup history, finishing the game inside 16 overs.

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Phil Salt recalled how he padded up to bat at No. 3 but never got the chance because the openers were in a different zone altogether. According to him, that performance was the product of years of England’s commitment to a bold, carefree white-ball philosophy.

But now, Salt believes the balance of power has shifted. “Since then, India have made the switch and are now the trendsetters,” he said, pointing to their commanding run in the 2024 T20 World Cup, including their semi-final win in Guyana. Salt added that, given the conditions and the momentum India carried, beating them on that day would’ve taken something extraordinary.

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India’s dominance is reflected in the ICC rankings as well. Sitting comfortably at No. 1 with 272 rating points, they’ve stitched together nine consecutive T20I series or tournament wins. Their last series defeat came way back in 2023 against the West Indies. With a five-match showdown against South Africa beginning December 9, India’s preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup on home soil have already shifted into high gear.