India’s struggles at the top of the order in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 could lead to a potential change in the playing XI, with assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate hinting at the possible return of Sanju Samson. The discussion gained momentum after India national cricket team suffered a heavy 76-run defeat to the South Africa national cricket team in their opening Super 8 fixture at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Chasing a challenging target of 188, India’s batting lineup once again failed to deliver. The hosts were bundled out for just 111 in 18.5 overs, continuing a worrying trend that has followed the team throughout the tournament. The top order, in particular, has struggled to provide stability, putting pressure on the middle order in nearly every game.

Much of the concern revolves around India’s opening combination. Abhishek Sharma has endured a difficult campaign, registering three ducks in four innings so far. Meanwhile, Tilak Varma has also been unable to convert his starts into meaningful scores at the top of the order.

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Another recurring issue has been India’s vulnerability to spin early in the innings. Opponents have repeatedly opened the bowling with part-time off-spin, and the tactic has worked effectively. India has lost a wicket in the very first over in each of their last three matches, leaving the batting unit under immediate pressure.

Addressing the problem after the match, Ten Doeschate acknowledged the pattern and admitted the team management is evaluating possible adjustments. “Yeah, of course we have. And look, in the five outings we’ve had now, four teams have opened with part-time off-spin and it’s brought a wicket every time,” Ryan Ten Doeschate said in the post-match press conference.

He further explained how early wickets have complicated India’s approach in run chases. “So to start every innings nought for one — I think it’s literally been nought or a couple of runs for one every time — is obviously putting pressure on the players,” he added.

Ryan ten Doeschate also confirmed that the team management will deliberate carefully before making any changes ahead of the remaining Super 8 fixtures.

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“Do you stick with the guys who we feel have performed really well over the last 18 months, or do we twist and bring in Sanju, who’s also a fantastic player and obviously helps tactically by having a right-hander at the top of the order?” he said.

However, Samson’s recent numbers present a dilemma. Since 2025, the wicketkeeper-batter has scored 156 runs from 12 innings as an opener at an average of 13, with a highest score of 37. With a must-win clash against the Zimbabwe national cricket team scheduled for February 26 in Chennai, India’s think tank faces a crucial decision regarding their opening combination.