T20 World Cup 2026: Gavaskar Suggests Key India Change The T20 World Cup has reached a defining moment for India as team selection once again dominates headlines. Following a heavy defeat to South Africa in the Super 8 stage, former captain Sunil Gavaskar has proposed a significant change to India’s playing XI for the upcoming T20 World Cup clash against Zimbabwe. Axar Patel’s Return in Focus The biggest debate in the T20 World Cup revolves around Axar Patel’s exclusion in the previous match. Gavaskar believes Axar should return to the XI, potentially replacing pacer Arshdeep Singh. While Arshdeep impressed with his rhythm against South Africa, Gavaskar stressed that team balance in the T20 World Cup is critical, especially against a Zimbabwe side with fewer left-handed batters. The earlier decision to play Washington Sundar instead of Axar did not yield the desired results, intensifying scrutiny over India’s tactical planning in the T20 World Cup. Coaching Staff Defends Strategy India’s coaching staff maintained that the T20 World Cup selection was based on match-ups and batting depth requirements. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate clarified that the move was tactical rather than a reflection of Axar’s value to the team. With semi-final hopes hanging in the balance, India’s next T20 World Cup fixture could determine whether Gavaskar’s suggestion becomes reality and whether the team can recover from mounting pressure.