As the T20 World Cup 2026 reaches its most intense phase, Team India finds itself surrounded by uncomfortable questions. Should the batting order be changed? Is opener Abhishek Sharma still the right fit? And should Sanju Samson be given a chance at the top?

What once looked like a smooth title defense has suddenly turned into a survival battle. Ahead of the crucial Super 8 match against Zimbabwe, a bold suggestion from former India opener Virender Sehwag has reignited the selection debate.

From favorites to facing elimination pressure

Just weeks ago, India were seen as clear favorites to cruise into the semifinals. However, a heavy defeat against South Africa in their first Super 8 match has pushed the defending champions into a do-or-die scenario.

India now needs to win both remaining matches—and even then, qualification may depend on other results. In this tense situation, batting failures have become a major concern, particularly at the top of the order.

Sehwag’s blunt take: “Give Abhishek a break”

Abhishek Sharma’s poor run of form throughout the tournament has drawn sharp criticism. Addressing the issue on a Cricbuzz show, Virender Sehwag didn’t mince words. He suggested resting Abhishek for the Zimbabwe match and giving Sanju Samson an opportunity instead.

Sehwag argued that this is the only remaining match where India can afford to experiment. According to him, if India fails here, selection combinations won’t matter anymore. His clear message: play the best in-form XI and back players who look confident.

Calls for reshuffling the batting order

Sehwag also shared his thoughts on the batting order, even if Abhishek is retained. He proposed sending Suryakumar Yadav at number three, followed by Tilak Varma at number four. The rest of the lineup, he suggested, should be flexible—based on match-ups and left-right combinations.

More than tactics, Sehwag highlighted a bigger issue: pressure. He believes Indian batters are playing with fear, worrying too much about getting out instead of expressing themselves freely.

A big call before a big match

Whether Team India acts on Sehwag’s advice remains to be seen. But with semifinal hopes hanging by a thread, every decision—from team selection to batting order—will be under intense scrutiny. The clash against Zimbabwe is no longer just another game; it could define India’s World Cup fate.