India's Predicted XI vs Zimbabwe, T20 World Cup Super Eight: Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav In As Three Stars To Miss Out?

India face Zimbabwe in a crucial Super 8 clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 on February 26 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. After a 76-run defeat to South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the India national cricket team are under pressure. Zimbabwe, led by Sikandar Raza, are also coming off a heavy loss. Another defeat could seriously damage semifinal hopes for either side.

Changes are expected in India's playing XI

The most straightforward switch is likely to be Axar Patel for Washington Sundar. Sundar featured in two matches but failed to make an impact. Against South Africa, he bowled only two overs without taking a wicket and scored 11 off 11 balls at No. 5. The decision to pick him over Axar drew criticism after the defeat.

Axar brings greater control with the ball and more clarity in role with the bat. On a Chennai surface that traditionally assists spinners, his left-arm accuracy could be vital. He also strengthens the lower order without compromising the bowling balance.

The bigger calls concern the batting unit

Tilak Varma has been consistent in getting starts but the strike rate has been a concern. Apart from one game, he has struggled to maintain tempo. In the Super 8s, intent matters as much as stability.

Rinku Singh has not delivered in the finisher's role. Scores of 6, 1, 11*, 6* and 0 underline the lack of impact. India have repeatedly found themselves short of acceleration in the final overs.

Abhishek Sharma is another player under review. While aggressive at the top, he has not consistently converted starts. With pressure mounting, team management may opt for greater control in the middle order.

That opens the door for Sanju Samson. Samson offers flexibility. He can bat at No. 3, 4 or 5 and is comfortable against spin - a key factor in Chennai. His inclusion would allow India to restructure the middle order and add experience in pressure overs.

There is also a tactical argument for strengthening the spin attack. Chepauk typically slows down as the match progresses. In that context, Kuldeep Yadav becomes a strong option. If included, he adds a wrist-spin dimension that can create breakthroughs in the middle overs. One of the batters - likely Rinku or Tilak - could make way if India choose an extra specialist bowler.

India's likely changes: Axar in for Sundar; Samson in for one of the underperforming middle-order batters; and Kuldeep considered depending on pitch assessment.

This is a results-driven stage. Form, conditions and role clarity will dictate selection. India are expected to back players who suit Chennai's surface and who can deliver immediately. Against a competitive Zimbabwe side, experimentation is unlikely.

Topics mentioned in this article

Cricket India Cricket Team Zimbabwe Cricket Team T20 World Cup 2026