with India T20 World Cup 2026 A dependent, old coach in the balance of the campaign Ravi Shastri suggested a bold tactical rethink for the upcoming Super 8 clash Zimbabwe. After a heavy defeat South AfricaShastri believes that India need to strengthen their bowling resources – even if it means sacrificing some specialist batsmen Rinku Singh.
India are in a must-win situation and according to Shastri, agility and depth in bowling can make the difference between survival and elimination.
Ravi Shastri backs two-spinner strategy for Zimbabwe clash
Speaking to the ICC, Shastri emphasized the importance of an extra bowling option in T20 cricket, especially in high-pressure matches.
“I would say play both. Give yourself the extra option because on a given day you will be a bowler who will have an off day,” Shastri explained.
His words were for India’s spin department, especially after that Varun Chakraborty Struggled to make an impact against South Africa. The mystery spinner was not at his best and conceded crucial runs – something Shastri felt could have been mitigated by a stronger bowling cover.
In modern T20 cricket, where the boundaries are razor-thin, a bowler with an off day can bowl an entire contest. Shastri’s solution is simple: build insurance into the playing XI.
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Shastri points to the exclusion of Rinku Singh
However, adding an extra bowler comes at a cost. Shastri hinted that Rinku will have to sit out if India is to strengthen its bowling attack.
“That means Rinku Singh may have to miss. But if he has to come in, the specialist has to come in.” Shastri said.
India’s middle order already has considerable firepower Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dubeyand Washington Sundar probably occupying slots 5, 6 and 7. with Akhar Patel Shastri, who can also bat higher up the order, believes India already has enough depth in their batting line-up.
“If Axar Patel is playing, he can bat at 8. You have Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar at 5, 6 and 7. Akhar can also go at 5. Now, if eight batsmen can’t do the job in T20 cricket, then you know something is wrong,” he added.
His message was clear – India’s problem is not lack of batting power, but inadequate bowling options.
India’s loss to South Africa exposed cracks in both bowling and tactical balance. With a poor Net Run Rate and zero points in the Super 8 stage, the margin for error is almost non-existent. Zimbabwe could play fearless cricket without scoreboard pressure. This unpredictability makes tactical preparation even more important.
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