Virender Sehwag has advised India to rest Abhishek Sharma in the must-win T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match against Zimbabwe, scheduled to be held at Chepauk, Chennai on Thursday, February 26. Abhishek’s World T20 campaign has been a tough one, marred by illness and a struggle for form. He endured three consecutive ducks in the group stage and he only managed a short 12-ball 15 during India’s 76-run defeat of South Africa in the Super 8 opener.
The Indian team management continued to support Abhishek Sharma despite his lack of runshoping for a turnaround that would resolve the ongoing crisis of the highest order. However, Sehwag questioned the wisdom of persisting with the batter at such high stakes.
“If I was there, I would have given Abhishek Sharma a break and tried Sanju Samson instead. This is the only match where you can try because if India lose this match, then they are out. Because it is such an important match, India have to pick their best playing XI based on form,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.
ARE INDIAN TACTICS GOOD?
India’s net run-rate has also emerged as a growing concern after the heavy loss to South Africa, which currently sits at -3,800. Should the West Indies overcome South Africa in their own Super 8 tie, the pressure could mount on Suryakumar Yadav’s team and every selection and tactical decision would be crucial to progress.
Sehwag defended India’s tactical approach throughout the tournament, instead pointing to execution as the main area for improvement.
“I think there could be some changes in terms of selection but the tactics were not bad, the problem was just the execution. That aspect can be better and they will try to improve on that. Neither Abhishek Sharma nor Tilak Varma are in good form so they have to keep that in mind,” the former batsman added.
The struggles of Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma have put extra pressure on India’s middle order, a problem batting coach Sitanshu Kotak tried to play down in the lead-up to the Zimbabwe game. The duo’s lack of influence created constant challenges for the team throughout the tournament.
As India prepares to face Zimbabwe, the debate over team selection and performance of key batsmen will remain in focus. With tournament survival at stake, the management faces crucial decisions in the coming days.
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Published on:
February 26, 2026
