With Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy struggling for form, the Indian Team management will have some headaches ahead of the final
Surya Kumar Yadav (Pic: File Pic)
Team India is set to face New Zealand in a highly anticipated final of the T20 World Cup 2026. The 'Men in Blue' are one step away from creating history, as they aim to become the first team ever to win back-to-back T20 World Cups.
Despite India's run to the final, it has not been smooth sailing for the hosts. Suryakumar Yadav-led outfit lost their opening Super 8 clash against South Africa in Ahmedabad. After the defeat, India brought back Sanju Samson in the team, and the star opener has delivered.
However, there are other concerns in the team too, with the likes of Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy struggling for form. Sharma, the top-rated T20 batter in the world, has had a disappointing tournament and has struggled against spin in the opening overs.
On the other hand, the form of Varun Chakravarthy is a concern too. India's mystery spinner has found it tough to find his line and length and has often been hit for runs, including the semi-final against England.
India could field an unchanged playing XI for the final
While there are some concerns with the form of Indian players, the 'Men in Blue' could line up with the same team as they did in the semi-final. The Indian team is filled with genuine match-winners who can single-handedly win the game for their team on a good day.
Abhishek Sharma would be desperate to get some runs under his belt. The dashing opener started the tournament with three ducks in a row and has failed to have any major impact. However, a quick-fire 40 or 50 runs from him might set India on their way.
The likes of Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya are set to retain their place in the playing XI too, alongside the ever-reliable Axar Patel and Tilak Varma.
In the bowling department, the Indian management could be tempted to play Kuldeep Yadav or Mohammed Siraj based on the nature of the wicket; however, Varun Chakravarthy is the World No.1 bowler in the ICC rankings, and could be backed for the big game. In the fast bowling department, Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah would be set to lead the line with a bowl in their hands.
By sticking to their core team, India would ensure they have enough bowling and batting options for the final. With 3 all-rounder options in the starting XI, Suryakumar Yadav and his Indian team would be the favourites to retain their World T20 title.
Team India Possible Starting XI: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh
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