India’s crushing defeat to South Africa in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Ahmedabad has triggered a wave of criticism and suggestions from former players and experts. The 76-run loss not only exposed tactical flaws but also left India’s campaign in a precarious position. With the net run rate badly affected, even victories in the remaining two matches may not guarantee a semi-final berth.
India’s batting unit has been under particular scrutiny after the disappointing performance against South Africa. Opener Abhishek Sharma has endured a poor run of form, while Tilak Varma has struggled to establish himself in the crucial No.3 role. The lack of fluency at the top of the order, combined with visible discomfort against slower deliveries, allowed the Proteas bowlers to dictate terms throughout the contest.
Selection decisions have also come under the microscope. The inclusion of Washington Sundar and the omission of proven performers like Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav sparked debate among analysts and fans alike. Critics, including former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar, have questioned whether the team management—led by head coach Gautam Gambhir—got the balance right.
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Looking ahead to the must-win clash against Zimbabwe, former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel believes India should make a few calculated changes to their playing XI.
“I would like to see Axar Patel coming back into the team,” Parthiv Patel said on JioHotstar. “He has played crucial knocks in the past. Yes, match-ups come into play, but I would definitely bring Axar Patel in. There is also the question of Sanju Samson. There could even be a homecoming for him in Chennai. It is something India would definitely be considering, especially given the glaring problem Indian left-handers are facing against off-spinners.”
Patel further suggested that if Samson gets an opportunity, he should bat at No.3 instead of Tilak Varma to provide a right-handed option in the top order.
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“Sanju Samson is not in great form either, but bringing in a right-hander could offer a different perspective. Or maybe India could just try changing the batting order. If Sanju Samson comes in, he should bat at number three. If he does not play, then Suryakumar Yadav has to bat at three,” he added.
With qualification hopes hanging by a thread, India’s next selection call could prove decisive for their World Cup campaign.
