India must win their upcoming match against Zimbabwe after suffering a significant loss to South Africa in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. With just two Super 8 matches remaining, the team faces the risk of an early exit. They need to fix their batting issues, particularly as Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma have struggled to perform.
Abhishek has only managed 15 runs in four innings, including three ducks. Meanwhile, Tilak, who excelled in the 2025 Asia Cup, has accumulated 107 runs in five matches but has yet to deliver a match-winning performance. There are calls from experts and supporters for the team to alter their playing XI before the critical match against Zimbabwe.
Coach Hints At Sanju Samson’s Return
Sanju Samson has mostly been on the bench during the World Cup, appearing in just one match where he scored 22 runs—already surpassing Abhishek’s total in the tournament.
India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, spoke to the media ahead of the Zimbabwe match, indicating that changes are possible.
Sitanshu Kotak said:
“There have been discussions around that, and we are thinking. We will see because we never decide the team early. But there will be thought.”
This statement suggests that the team management is considering reinstating Samson.
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Rinku Singh’s Circumstances Add to Selection Discussions
Rinku Singh’s training absence on Tuesday raised questions. He returned home to attend to his seriously ill father, potentially opening the door for changes in the batting lineup.
The plan was to have Samson as an opener alongside Abhishek, with Ishan Kishan batting third if Rinku couldn’t play. However, Kotak has confirmed that Rinku will rejoin the team in time for the match at Chepauk.
Kotak added:
“Rinku Singh is joining the team this evening. He went back home because his father is not well.”
With Rinku back, the team needs to decide which underperforming top-order batsmen will be left out.
Why Abhishek And Tilak Are Under Pressure
Abhishek Sharma has shown promise over the past two years, but his current form raises concerns. The team needs strong performances as the tournament reaches a critical juncture.
Tilak Varma has struggled to form partnerships and has difficulty rotating the strike. He is expected to handle crucial middle-order overs but has not delivered when it matters most.
India must win all remaining matches to stay in the tournament. The upcoming team announcement will be closely watched by many.
