T20 World Cup 2026: India's playing XI dilemma - more of the same or is it time to bring Sanju Samson in?
Times of India
by SAHIL MALHOTRAFebruary 25, 2026
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The Indian cricket team is grappling with a critical dilemma ahead of their T20 World Cup match against Zimbabwe: whether to maintain their current batting lineup or reintroduce Sanju Samson into the mix. Despite an intense practice session at MA Chidambaram Stadium, questions remain about India's playing XI following their defeat in the Super Eight game against South Africa. The team is under pressure to address their batting struggles, particularly the reliance on left-handed batters, which opponents have effectively countered with off-spin tactics.
The absence of Rinku Singh, who returned home due to his father's illness, has further complicated the decision-making process. While Sanju Samson participated in the nets, there is no clarity on whether he will be included in the top order. The trio of Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Tilak Varma has yet to perform consistently, leaving the team management in a quandary. Discussions are ongoing about whether to reshuffle the batting order or revert to previous lineups, with coach Gautam Gambhir and senior player Jasprit Bumrah closely monitoring batting sessions.
The practice session provided insights into potential strategies. Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav batted together, while Samson's inclusion was a topic of speculation. The venue in Chennai is expected to offer a neutral wicket with dew potentially influencing gameplay, adding another layer of complexity to India's preparations. With two days left until the match, the team's focus remains on finalizing their batting combination and addressing their recent inconsistencies.
This dilemma matters significantly for readers interested in cricket as it highlights the challenges faced by top teams in high-stakes tournaments like the T20 World Cup. The outcome of this decision could impact India's chances of securing a strong performance against Zimbabwe and beyond, making it a crucial moment for their campaign.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/25/2026