With the business end of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 underway, former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar has shared his thoughts on possible changes India might consider ahead of their Super 8 encounter against South Africa. While India have looked strong overall, Bangar believes selection calls will hinge less on star power and more on tactical balance suited to match conditions.
India’s squad depth has been one of their biggest strengths in the tournament, with multiple players contributing in different games. But Bangar pointed out that such depth also forces difficult decisions for the team management. “You have to make a choice,” he said, explaining that combinations must be chosen based on surface, opposition strengths, and match situations rather than sentiment. According to him, having several in-form players competing for spots is a positive headache, but it demands clarity from selectors and the captain.
The match is scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium, a venue known to offer varying conditions depending on pitch preparation. That factor alone could influence whether India opt for an extra spinner, an additional seamer, or strengthen their batting depth. Bangar emphasised that reading conditions correctly before finalising the XI will be critical against a disciplined South African side.
He also identified fielding as an area India must tighten. Despite winning key moments in earlier games, the side has been guilty of dropped chances recently. “If there is one department where they would want improvement, it would be catching,” Bangar noted, stressing that lapses in the field can quickly shift momentum in high-pressure knockout-style matches.
India’s core group remains vital to their plans. Captain Rohit Sharma brings experience at the top, while stroke-maker Suryakumar Yadav has provided middle-order stability and attacking intent. With the ball, much responsibility rests on Jasprit Bumrah, whose ability to deliver under pressure often sets the tone for India’s bowling performance.
Bangar’s overall message is clear: tournament success depends not just on talent but on choosing the right combination at the right time. As India prepare for one of their toughest Super 8 tests, their selections could play as decisive a role as their performance on the field.
