India’s recent 76-run loss to South Africa has raised concerns about their approach heading into a crucial T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match against Zimbabwe in Chennai on February 26, 2026.
Two-time World Cup-winning captain Ricky Ponting and former India coach Ravi Shastri have shared tactical advice to help the defending champions recover, particularly focusing on the decision to leave vice-captain Axar Patel out of the lineup. This defeat ended India’s 12-match winning streak and has prompted the team management to rethink their player selections ahead of their game against the West Indies in Kolkata this Sunday.
Ricky Ponting’s call for simplicity in team selection
Ponting has suggested that Indian management should simplify their selection process and focus on building the strongest squad rather than overthinking strategies based on opponents. He criticized the choice to bench Axar Patel in response to the South African left-handed batsmen, arguing that it undermined the importance of fielding the best possible team. Ponting highlighted that effective team management revolves around utilizing the skills of top bowlers rather than excluding them due to the batting order of the opposition.
“The reason Axar didn’t play was because of the left-handers, but there are also right-handers in their lineup. It’s about a captain’s skill in using Axar at the right moment. I’d focus on our best XI for Chennai,” Ponting stated, as reported by ICC.
Advocating for Kuldeep Yadav’s return
In addition to the conversation around Axar, Ponting is advocating for Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the lineup for the upcoming match. He believes Kuldeep’s ability to spin the ball in both directions makes him a valuable option who can challenge any batsman, regardless of their handedness. This versatility can be particularly effective on subcontinental pitches where the bounce and deceptive deliveries of a wrist-spinner can lead to crucial breakthroughs when defending a target.
“Kuldeep Yadav is another player I’d want back because he can bowl effectively to both left-handers and right-handers, making him a great asset,” Ponting added.
