India Drops Axar Patel From Playing XI Against South Africa; Coach Explains Selection Call

India’s decision to bench vice‑captain Axar Patel for the T20 World Cup Super 8 clash against South Africa was a tactical choice based on match‑ups and team balance, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said, as the defending champions suffered a heavy loss

Ahmedabad| February 23, 2026: In a major strategic move ahead of their Super 8 match against South Africa in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Indian team management opted to leave out Axar Patel from the playing XI and instead retained Washington Sundar, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate explained to reporters after India’s 76‑run defeat. The decision raised eyebrows because Axar is India’s vice‑captain and a key all‑rounder, but the management said it was based on match‑up analysis.

Ten Doeschate said the team spent considerable time deliberating over the best combination, focusing particularly on how to tackle South Africa’s left‑handed top order. The management believed that playing Sundar would provide variety in bowling and strengthen batting depth, allowing the inclusion of an extra batter. “We were kind of looking at match‑ups more in the middle. And then obviously someone has to give way,” he said, adding that the choice was not intended to diminish Axar’s importance to the squad.

However, India were bowled out for 111 while chasing South Africa’s 187, and the tactic did not pay off. Sundar had limited impact with bat or ball, and critics said the decision disrupted team balance. Fans and former players questioned dropping a senior player like Axar, who has been consistent throughout the tournament, and some termed the move surprising given his leadership role.

The controversy over Axar’s exclusion highlights the challenges of fitting 11 players into a 15‑member squad during a global tournament, and India will now look to recalibrate their strategy ahead of the remaining Super 8 fixtures.

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