Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has strongly criticised the Indian team management for leaving out Axar Patel in the Super 8 clash against South Africa in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Kaif described the decision as a panic-driven move that ultimately backfired as India suffered a heavy defeat.
India were beaten by 76 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad after being bowled out for 111 while chasing a competitive target of 188. Axar was replaced by Washington Sundar in the playing XI, but the off-spinner failed to make a significant impact. Sundar finished with figures of 0/17 in two overs and scored 11 runs from 11 balls with the bat.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav had earlier explained that Sundar’s inclusion was a tactical decision, while batting coach Sitanshu Kotak stated the move was intended to counter South Africa’s left-handed batters. However, Mohammad Kaif disagreed with the reasoning and argued that dropping a proven performer like Axar purely on the basis of match-ups reflected poor planning.
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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif pointed out that great captains like MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma always aimed to build a balanced playing XI rather than constantly changing combinations based on opposition line-ups.
“All great captains like MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma aimed to form one playing XI that covered all the bases. It wasn’t like our left-arm spinner won’t play because there are many lefties in the opposition team. This shows that you are lacking in preparation,” Mohammad Kaif said.
He also highlighted Axar’s impressive performances in ICC tournaments. According to Mohammad Kaif, the all-rounder had delivered crucial breakthroughs in big games and deserved more trust from the team management.
“Axar was the Player of the Match against England in the semifinal. He dismissed Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler and Moeen Ali. Moeen Ali was a lefty. How did he get out to him then? Sir, aise nahi hota,” Mohammad Kaif remarked.
Kaif further pointed out how Keshav Maharaj played a key role for South Africa in the same match by picking up three wickets, underlining how backing a bowler consistently can build confidence and results.
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“Axar Patel is a proven match-winner in ICC events. According to me, he should have been the Player of the Match in the T20 World Cup 2024 final for his cameo,” Mohammad Kaif added.
The former India batter concluded by saying that last-minute tactical changes suggested India were under pressure, while South Africa appeared calm and well-prepared despite losing the previous World Cup final to India.
