Chennai, Feb 25 (.) India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has indicated that changes in the playing XI, including the possible inclusion of Sanju Samson and Axar Patel, are under consideration ahead of the defending champions’ crucial Super Eight clash against Zimbabwe national cricket team in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Kotak said team combinations are being discussed, keeping opposition strengths and match situations in mind.
“There can be changes, yes. And obviously, it goes without saying that we discuss. Because there are two lefty openers, number three is left-handed, and the opposition has its bowling options. I personally don’t think that there is any problem there also. But because we give wickets in the first over, obviously, any team would think,” he said.
Speculation has been rife about Samson replacing Tilak Varma, especially with opener Abhishek Sharma enduring a lean run in the tournament, scoring just 15 runs in four matches, including three ducks.
Kotak, however, said Samson’s batting in the nets was not necessarily an indication of selection.
“Sanju would normally always bat if we have that space because Abhishek doesn’t bat early, and Sanju is a third opener and a wicket-keeper, so he bats anywhere. Yes, definitely, there will be thought about playing him; there is no doubt. But nets don’t give any indication,” he said.
Backing the struggling openers, Kotak said it was important not to overreact to recent failures.
“Ishan obviously played brilliantly against Pakistan, but Abhishek had a little rough patch. It is fine. I personally would not stress too much about it. I would rather look ahead,” he said, referring to Ishan Kishan’s recent form.
He also dismissed concerns over pitch conditions, saying the team’s batting struggles were not due to the surfaces.
“I don’t think we struggle on black soil. Sometimes, if you lose three wickets in one over or get a low score, we should not blame the wickets. We have to stay positive and play better cricket,” he added.
India suffered a 76-run defeat to South Africa in their Super Eight opener, with Axar missing that match due to a tactical decision as Washington Sundar was preferred.
. VAN .