In the World Cup in their own country, it is rare that any team will be truly in trouble. But, following an incredibly bruising loss to South Africa, the defending champions are on a fairly thin ledge right now. They can only afford one more mishap before they will no longer have a shot at defending their title.
India’s loss by 76 runs was their largest ever loss by any team in a T20 World Cup. India’s loss demonstrated the flaws in their game that most people did not see because of the way they won during group play. Now they are set to play against Zimbabwe today in the must-win Super 8 game, and the coaching staff has a big decision to make: should they make a few changes or stay with the team that has won so far?
Samson Back in Contention
Sanju Samson is back in the mix. India has no right-hand option to face off-spin during the powerplay from the opening position. Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza is likely to attack early, which could cause a lot of pressure on a left-heavy opening combination.
If Sanju opens, then Ishan will slide down to No. 3 – a position where he has done very well, including scoring 100 against New Zealand last month and generally batting in that position in the IPL – the change will most likely mean that Tilak Varma will lose his place due to lack of runs.
It appears to be a tactical move and not panic. The objective is to give Team India balance, not panic.
The Rinku Question
Rinku Singh is on the fringes. He left camp for a family emergency and was due back Wednesday night; however, this late in a tournament, teams don’t usually give someone great consideration when making a selection decision.
India must weigh having a deeper batting order versus having more bowlers with different skills available to choose from to make up a bowling attack. Chepauk has been a good pitch for spin historically but appears to be a good pitch for batting at this tournament; consequently, fast bowlers have struggled for control at this tournament.
The return of Axar Patel will likely occur for the next match against the vast majority of Zimbabwean right-handed batsmen – however, the last decision regarding the selection may come down to Washington Sundar or Kuldeep Yadav based on batting security or the advantage of having a left-arm wrist spinner, respectively.
Rinku Singh could end up sitting out if India were to choose another bowler to have on its roster.
No Appetite for Overhaul
Captain Suryakumar Yadav, along with the leadership team, understands that going through drastic changes does not always provide the solution needed for the deep-rooted issues faced by the team. There needs to be stability and clarity during this time.
India were unbeaten in the Group Stage of the World Cup. This performance is not going to just disappear, but there is clearly a diminishing return to margin in tournament games. Therefore, selection is an element of both science and instinct.
In their match against Zimbabwe, India are not only trying to win but also reprovision themselves with control.
Also Read: Govt Mandates 20% Ethanol-Blended Petrol with RON 95 from April 1
