India has made two significant changes to their squad ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe. With a place in the semi-finals up for grabs, the Men in Blue have included Sanju Samson and Axar Patel in the playing XI, replacing Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar. Samson will take on wicketkeeping duties for India, while Axar Patel will bring his all-round capabilities to the side.

India’s entry into the Super 8 was marred by a defeat to South Africa on Sunday, and with the crucial match against Zimbabwe ahead, the team is focused on bouncing back. The changes indicate a tactical shift as India seeks to strengthen their batting and bowling lineup for the match. Samson's return is expected to provide a solid foundation at the top of the order, while Axar’s ability to contribute both with the bat and ball could prove vital.

India’s playing XI for the Zimbabwe clash reads: Sanju Samson(w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Jasprit Bumrah. With the Super 8 stage heating up, India’s hopes of making it to the semi-finals hinge on a victory in this must-win encounter.