The T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 stage began disastrously for India, crushed by 76 runs by South Africa – their heaviest defeat by runs in tournament history. Undefeated in the group phase, this humbling loss has complicated the path to semifinals. To rebound against Zimbabwe and West Indies, India requires lopsided wins, likely prompting a seismic shift in the playing XI.
Enter Sanju Samson, whose inclusion is gaining traction amid the flops of Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Rinku Singh. Abhishek endured three golden ducks before a paltry 15 against the Proteas. Tilak’s last five innings read 25, 25, 25, 31, 1 – uninspiring at best. Rinku’s bat has been mute: 6, 1, 11, 6, 0.
India’s lineup is skewed with left-handers, making Samson’s right-handed flair a strategic must. In his only group game versus Namibia, he unleashed 22 runs off 8 deliveries, hinting at middle-order fireworks or a fresh opening gambit. Speculation points to Abhishek as the most likely casualty, but the decision looms large.
Captain Rohit Sharma faces mounting pressure to restore batting prowess. Samson’s versatility – opener or anchor – positions him perfectly for revival. With net run rate in focus, this tweak could redefine India’s fortunes in the marquee tournament.