The excitement around ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 reached fever pitch India prepare face to face New Zealand in a high-voltage final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Led by the defending champions Suryakumar Yadavenjoyed a dominant campaign throughout the tournament and are now just one win away from lifting the trophy for the second time in a row.
India’s journey to the summit clash has been marked by consistent performances from both the batting and bowling units. However, as the team prepares for the biggest match of the tournament, discussions about the starting XI have intensified. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar Focusing on the debate as well, he suggested a few bold changes that he believes could bolster the team’s chances against the Black Caps.
Sunil Gavaskar questions Abhishek Sharma’s place in the final
One of Gavaskar’s most surprising suggestions was for the young opener Abhishek Sharma. Despite being the No. 1 batsman in the ICC T20 rankings, Gavaskar believes the left-hander should be left out of the XI for the finals as he has been dismissed in similar fashion numerous times throughout the tournament. According to Gavaskar, the bowlers have clearly identified the weakness in Abhishek’s technique and are exploiting it time and time again.
“It’s a very tough call. Abhishek Sharma is the No. 1 batsman in the ICC T20 rankings, but he hasn’t learned from his dismissals. He keeps getting into the same area where his arms are tight for ground. Bowlers target that area and force mistakes. My concern is that he either hasn’t changed his approach yet or he hasn’t.” Gavaskar said with reference to “India Today” agency.
The legendary batsman suggested that India could change their top order by bringing in Ishan Kishi as an opener next to it Sanju Samsonwhile a medium power hitter Rinku Singh may also enter the playing XI.
“I’d like to see Ishan Kisha open the batting with Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh coming into the side. Rinku has such a belief – you’ve probably seen ‘God’s Plan’ tattooed on his body – and sometimes things work out for players like him,” added the legendary cricketer.
Gavaskar recommends Kuldeep Yadav over Varun Chakraborty
Gavaskar also recommended changes in India’s bowling department, urging the team management to replace the out-of-form spinner. Varun Chakraborty with left arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav for the final.
According to him, Varun struggled especially against stronger opponents in the final stages of the tournament. Gavaskar believes that Kuldeep’s ability to create spin even on flat surfaces could be valuable in the large ground size of the Narendra Modi Stadium.
“Another change I think is to bring in Kuldeep Yadav. Varun Chakravarthy’s confidence seems shaken at the moment. Ever since the Super Eights, when he has faced stronger teams, he has struggled and conceded a lot of runs. In a venue like the Narendra Modi Stadium with big boundaries, Kuldeep Yadav can be a good option as he can spin even on a flat surface,” Gavaskar stated.
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