Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has criticised the Indian national cricket team for its predictable batting approach after the team’s heavy defeat to South Africa in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. According to the former off-spinner, India’s ultra-aggressive strategy has made their batting vulnerable, especially when early wickets fall.

Harbhajan pointed out that India’s batting struggles were already evident in earlier matches in the tournament against the United States, Namibia, and the Netherlands. While India managed to win those games, the warning signs were clear, and a stronger opponent eventually exposed the flaws.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan Singh said the Indian batters are following the same pattern of attacking every delivery without adjusting to match situations.

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“India are a much better team than this. India are playing in a similar pattern where they are just hitting constantly. When wickets fall, the situation should be taken into consideration,” Harbhajan SIngh said.

He also acknowledged the effort of captain Suryakumar Yadav, who tried to rebuild the innings after early setbacks.

“In that regard, Surya did some hard work, but the rest of the batters didn’t show the intent that should have been shown. India are in a very tricky situation now,” he added.

India now finds themselves under serious pressure in the Super 8 stage, both in terms of points and net run rate. Their next assignment is a crucial clash against the Zimbabwe national cricket team, led by Sikandar Raza, at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

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Harbhajan Singh also suggested changes in the batting order to maximise the form of key players. He believes Suryakumar should have batted at No.3 instead of Tilak Varma, while in-form all-rounder Shivam Dube should have been promoted ahead of Washington Sundar.

“I think Suryakumar Yadav should have come at No.3 instead of Tilak Varma. And when you sent out Washington Sundar No.5, it should have been Shivam Dube,” Harbhajan Singh explained.