India continued its dominance in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026Finished top of their group with an impeccable record in the league stage. Putting in a stellar performance with both bat and ball, the Men in Blue ticked almost every box and outclassed their opponents to comfortably enter the Super 8 stage.
Now, the challenge has intensified. India face to face South Africa, West Indies And zimbabwe In Group 1 of Super 8. Their first assignment is a blockbuster encounter against the Proteas at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 22). With both teams carrying strong momentum into the next stage, the contest promises to be a defining moment in the tournament.
Amidst the preparations for this high-profile match, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar Have given your views on possible changes in India’s playing eleven.
Sunil Gavaskar has suggested one change in India’s playing XI for the match against South Africa
Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar predicted a possible change in the Indian combination. All-rounder according to him Akshar Patel There may be a return to the playing eleven for the Super 8 matches. Gavaskar was unsure about who would replace Akshar Arshdeep Singh As a possibility. He also doubted whether washington beautiful Will retain his spot but indicated that he believed Washington was likely to remain with the team. He further explained that the conditions at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, especially a pitch where very little turn is expected, may not be suitable for such a specialist wrist spinner. -Kuldeep YadavWhich can influence the selection decision of the team management.
“I think Axar Patel will definitely be back in the playing eleven for the Super 8 matches. Now, whether he replaces Arshdeep Singh, we will have to wait and see. Whether Washington keeps his place or not, that’s another aspect we don’t know. I think Washington will probably keep his place. On a ground like Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, on a pitch with hardly any turn, the team management cannot go with Kuldeep Yadav.” Gavaskar said.
Gavaskar pointed out that Kuldeep was not featured prominently in the last five-match T20 series against South Africa, which means he may not be at the center of the current strategy against the Proteas. He cited Washington’s ability to bat at number eight as a major advantage, highlighting the value of additional depth and power in the lower order. Based on this combination of past usage and team balance, Gavaskar concluded that the only possible change to the XI would be Akshar replacing Arshdeep, while Washington is expected to retain his place.
“Kuldeep also did not play much in the five-match T20 series against South Africa. I believe Washington Sundar is able to bat at number eight and hit the ball, which gives him an advantage. So I think the only change will be the return of Axar Patel in place of Arshdeep Singh.” He added.
Also read: Sunil Gavaskar reveals how Abhishek Sharma can regain his lost charm in T20 World Cup 2026
Why can the India-South Africa clash pave the way to the final?
The India vs South Africa match is more important than two points. Both the teams were finalists in the previous edition of the T20 World Cup, where India won the trophy in a memorable encounter. That rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity to Sunday’s contest.
In the current edition too, both the teams are considered to be in strong contention to reach the finals. Their squad depth, recent form and big-game nature put them in Group 1. While West Indies and Zimbabwe are capable sides and can spring surprises, their recent record against India and South Africa does not inspire the same level of confidence.
A win in this inaugural Super 8 match will not only give momentum but also a psychological edge. In a tightly-contested group, net run rate and head-to-head results could play a decisive role in determining who advances to the final. It will be important for India to maintain its unbeaten streak. This is an opportunity for South Africa to send a statement. With pride, history and a potential finalist spot at stake, the Ahmedabad encounter could well shape the destiny of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Also read: ICC announces full list of qualified teams for T20 World Cup 2028
