Former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel on Tuesday backed the return of Axar Patel to India’s playing XI for the crucial T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe, while also suggesting that Sanju Samson could be brought back into the side.
India’s semifinal hopes are hanging by a thread after a 76-run defeat to South Africa in Ahmedabad, leaving them dependent on net run rate and results in upcoming matches. To qualify, India must win their remaining two Super 8 fixtures and hope results elsewhere go in their favour.
Despite being India’s vice-captain and picking up six wickets in the tournament, Axar Patel was surprisingly left out of the Super 8 opener against South Africa, with the team opting for Washington Sundar instead. Parthiv believes that decision should be reversed.
Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Follow The Blues’, Parthiv said,
“I would like to see Axar Patel coming back into the team. He has played crucial knocks in the past. Yes, match-ups matter, but I would definitely bring Axar Patel in.”
The former wicketkeeper also opened the door for Sanju Samson’s return, especially with India’s left-handed-heavy top order — Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma — struggling against off-spin. Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza, an experienced off-spinner, could pose a serious threat in the powerplay.
Although Samson hasn’t been in great form, managing just 22 runs against Namibia, Parthiv feels a right-handed option could provide balance.
“There is also the question of Sanju Samson. A right-hander offers a different perspective, especially given the problems Indian left-handers are facing against off-spinners,” he said.
Parthiv suggested that Tilak Varma, who has scored just 107 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 118, could make way. However, he was clear that openers Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan should be retained.
“If Sanju Samson comes in, he should bat at number three. If he does not play, then Suryakumar Yadav has to bat at three,” Parthiv added.
With qualification on the line, India’s selection calls against Zimbabwe could prove decisive in keeping their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign alive.