After the crushing defeat against South Africa in the Super-8 of T20 World Cup 2026, the debate regarding the playing eleven of Team India has now intensified. Now before the next match against Zimbabwe, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has advised to make major changes in the playing eleven.
Gavaskar believes that all-rounder Axar Patel should be brought back into the team. He was kept out against South Africa and Washington Sundar got a chance in his place. However, in this match he was not able to leave much impact with both bat and ball. India had to face defeat by 76 runs in that match.
In whose place can I get a chance?
Gavaskar suggested that there are not many left-handed batsmen in the Zimbabwe team, in such a situation the inclusion of Axar Patel could prove beneficial for the team. He also said that if needed, Akshar can be played in place of fast bowler Arshdeep Singh.
However, Gavaskar also admitted that Arshdeep had bowled well in the last match and it is not an easy decision to drop a player who looks in form. In such a situation, the team management may also decide to enter the field with the same combination.
What does the team management have to say?
The team management has given clarification on the decision of keeping Akshar out against South Africa. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said that the decision to drop Akshar from the team was taken purely on the basis of strategy. He says that the team had decided to include an extra batsman keeping in mind the match-ups of the middle overs. The coaching staff also made it clear that Axar Patel is an important member of the team and this decision is not a question on his ability. According to the team management, in big tournaments it is necessary to make changes according to the conditions.
Now all eyes are on what combination the captain and the coaching staff will field against Zimbabwe. This match can prove to be very important for India to progress in the Super-8.
