with Indiaof T20 World Cup 2026 Hanging in the balance of the campaign, team selection once again became the biggest talking point. After a crushing defeat South Africa In the Super 8 stage, the Men in Blue will now face a must win Zimbabwe On February 26 in Chennai. Amid growing scrutiny over team mergers, the former India captain Chris Srikanth While recommending two significant changes to the playing XI, he offered his hearty take, backing the youngster to retain his place.
Kris Srikkanth feels the youngster is saving his spot
It should be noted that Srikkanth supported Tilak Varma to keep its place. Tilak’s form has been under the scanner throughout the tournament. In five matches, the left-hander managed 107 runs at an average of 21.40 and a strike rate of under 120 – numbers that do not fully reflect his potential. However, Srikkanth believes that statistics do not tell the whole story.
The former opener pointed out that Tilak played a useful cameo under pressure, including a crucial 20-over knock against Pakistan. According to Srikkanth, such contributions, though modest, show character in big moments.
He also highlighted the Chennai factor. The upcoming match will be played on a traditionally calm surface befitting a batsman like Tilak. Srikkanth reminded fans of Tilak’s impressive knock against England last year at the same venue and said familiarity with the conditions could help him rediscover his rhythm. In a tournament where faith can make overnight fortunes, Srikkanth feels that dropping Tilak now could do more harm than good.
“Tilak Varma has scored a couple of 20s. He scored an important 20 against Pakistan. I will not drop him in this match. The wicket will be comfortable in Chennai, so he should not be dropped in this match. He batted brilliantly against England here last year,” Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.
Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Shaheen Afridi explains why Pakistan lost to England in Super 8 clash
All-round star to replace Washington Sundar
Another key tip from Srikkanth involves fetching Akhar Patel again XI. Akhar has been left out of India’s last two matches Washington Sundar preferred as an all-rounder in spin bowling.
However, after the loss to South Africa, many fans and pundits questioned the call. Srikkanth echoed these sentiments, advocating Akhar’s return due to his greater experience and ability to contribute in high-pressure scenarios.
Akhar’s all-round capabilities – tight left-arm spin and lower-order batting – could provide the balance India badly need. In situations like knockouts, experience often trumps experience and Srikkanth relies heavily on this philosophy.
In addition, with Rinku Singh India may be forced to reshuffle staff, with one family reportedly returning home due to an emergency. Srikkanth revealed the insights gained from the networks and suggested that Sanju Samson could also open Abhishek Sharma. According to him, Samson fought first and then during training Ishan Kishi — a sequence that indicates a potential batting order. If this materialises, Kishan is likely to settle for 3rd place.
“So it will only be Axar Patel for Washington Sundar and Sanju Samson for Rinku Singh. If we look at what is happening in the nets, Sanju Samson will open the batting with Abhishek Sharma. Sanju bats first, then Kishan bats. So Sanju will open with Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan will replace Washington at Notel Suns. Rinku should come for Akhar Sundar, I think it is not right, but he has no other options. Srikkanth added.
