Three Indian Players Underperforming, Cause Headache Ahead of Super 8

New Delhi: Despite winning all four of their group-stage matches and entering the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026, Team India faces some challenges with three key players struggling with form. While most of the squad is in excellent touch, these underperformers are a potential concern for the defending champions as the real test begins in the knockout rounds.

Abhishek Sharma Fails to Open Account

Coming into the tournament as the world’s number-one T20 batsman, Abhishek Sharma is going through a difficult patch in his career. His dismissal for a duck against the Netherlands marked his third consecutive golden duck in this World Cup. Sharma’s aggressive approach, attempting big shots from the very first ball without reading the pitch, has backfired. In the Super 8, if India’s opening pair fails to provide a strong start against teams like South Africa or West Indies, the middle order could be under pressure, potentially jeopardizing India’s chances.

Tilak Varma’s Slow Strike Rate

In the middle order, Tilak Varma is expected to anchor the innings and maintain stability, but he has struggled in this tournament. Against the Netherlands, he scored 28 runs off 24 balls—a strike rate below par for T20 standards. His inability to maintain scoring momentum in the middle overs disrupts the team’s batting rhythm. In the knockout stages, if he continues to consume balls slowly, it could leave India’s death-over specialists with insufficient time to accelerate, potentially costing the team a big total.

Washington Sundar Fails to Impress

Washington Sundar, included in the team in place of Axar Patel, had an opportunity to shine against the Netherlands but failed to make an impact. He was expensive with the ball, conceding 36 runs in 4 overs, and did not get a chance to contribute with the bat. Ahead of the Super 8, India might consider bringing Axar Patel back into the playing XI in place of Sundar.

With the Super 8 stage looming, India will hope these players regain form, as even minor lapses could create challenges in high-pressure knockout matches.