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Sanju Samson likely to join India’s squad for upcoming T20 World Cup matches.
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India faced a heavy 76-run loss against South Africa in their Super 8 opener.
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Ryan Ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak share their insights and future plans.
The Indian team management is expected to make changes to address poor performance, possibly removing at least one underperforming batter and reconsidering the strategy of featuring too many left-handers in the top order. This was discussed by Gautam Gambhir’s assistants, Ryan Ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak, during a recent press conference.
South Africa defeated India by 76 runs in a Super Eight match on Sunday. With two crucial games remaining, the team management might reevaluate the performances of Abhishek Sharma (15 runs in four matches) and Tilak Varma (107 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 118).
Additionally, finisher Rinku Singh’s total of 24 runs in 29 balls, with a strike rate of 82.75, has been disappointing.
Sitanshu Kotak acknowledged the team’s challenging situation, stating, “If the head coach and management feel we need to change things, we will. It’s time to consider what changes to make.”
Kotak remarked, “We need to decide if we should do something different or stick with our current lineup.”
Sanju Samson Expected To Be In The Mix
Ten Doeschate expressed concern about the lack of specialist batters in the squad, mentioning that Sanju Samson, despite his poor form, may be brought back into the squad. The reasoning is to introduce a right-handed batter to add variety.
“We have to decide whether to continue with players who have performed well over the last 18 months or change things up. Sanju is a strong player who would help tactically by adding a right-hander at the top,” Ten Doeschate explained, indicating that changes may be forthcoming.
He added, “Samson’s inclusion will be an important topic in the days leading up to our next two games against Zimbabwe and West Indies.” Ten Doeschate also noted that Rinku’s role at Nos 7 or 8 has not been beneficial, as these positions can be very challenging in T20 Cricket.
“Rinku has faced difficult situations. He came in during tough patches, which limits his chances,” Ten Doeschate elaborated. He acknowledged that the focus now must be on improving player performances as there’s no point in discussing how players feel before the game.
“We need to see real performances from all players now as we prepare for the match against Zimbabwe,” Ten Doeschate stated. He also pointed out concerns about Abhishek and Tilak’s current forms.
“I won’t make excuses for Abhi or Tilak, but Abhishek’s prep had setbacks due to food poisoning, which has impacted his performance. With back-to-back zeros, it’s normal for doubt to creep in. I’ve noticed some positive signs, but he needs support,” he said.
Sitanshu Kotak Defends Abhishek Sharma
Kotak suggested that too much advice might overwhelm Abhishek given the tight schedule. “I believe in keeping things simple for a player during tough times. Having multiple voices can complicate things,” he noted.
“When there’s time available, adjustments can be made, but not in a couple of days. He needs to focus on the ball and strategically plan his innings,” Kotak advised.
When Will India Play Next In The ICC T20 World Cup 2026?
India’s next match in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8s is against Zimbabwe on Thursday (Feb 26). This will be followed by a rematch of the 2016 semi-final against the West Indies on Sunday (Mar 1) in Kolkata.
