Rahane Criticizes Tactical Blunder Following India’s Heavy Defeat to South Africa
Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane has heavily criticized the team management’s decision to exclude vice-captain Axar Patel from the playing XI during the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match against South Africa. The tactical gamble to play Washington Sundar over Patel backfired as India suffered a crushing 76-run defeat at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Match-Up Theory Fails Against Proteas
The team think tank, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav, replaced Patel with off-spinner Washington Sundar. The decision was driven by match-up data targeting South Africa’s left-heavy batting order, which includes Quinton de Kock and David Miller. However, the move failed to yield results.
While pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah dismissed openers De Kock and Ryan Rickelton early, the spin department struggled to contain the middle order. Sundar bowled only two overs, conceding 17 runs (8.50 economy), as batters David Miller and Dewald Brevis negotiated the off-spin with ease.
Match Statistics: Sundar vs. Expectations
| Metric | Washington Sundar (Actual) | Axar Patel (Previous Role) |
|---|---|---|
| Overs Bowled | 2 | Typically 4 (Full Quota) |
| Wickets Taken | 0 | Key wicket-taker in middle overs |
| Economy Rate | 8.50 | Consistent economy under 7.00 |
Rahane Calls for Backing Core Players
Speaking to Cricbuzz, Rahane expressed confusion over dropping the team’s designated vice-captain for a crucial Super 8 fixture. He argued that excessive reliance on data-driven match-ups often undermines team stability.
“I’m really surprised that Axar Patel didn’t play. I don’t understand what’s happening,” Rahane stated. “Sometimes I feel that when you become too smart, selection-wise, it can hamper you. You brought Sundar because of too many left-handers in the South African lineup, but he only bowled two overs.”
Rahane emphasized that Axar Patel’s recent form and status as vice-captain demanded his inclusion regardless of the opposition’s batting stance composition.
- Leadership Role: Axar is the designated vice-captain, making his exclusion unusual for a high-stakes match.
- Track Record: Rahane noted Axar’s ability to bowl effectively against left-handers, citing Keshav Maharaj’s success as a left-arm spinner against varied batting lineups.
- Stability: “You have to play the quality player in your team who has done so well for you in the past,” Rahane added.
Must-Win Scenario for India
The loss places India in a precarious position in the Super 8 standings. The management had previously rested Axar for the game against the Netherlands to give Sundar game time, but extending that experiment against a top-tier side like South Africa proved costly.
India now faces a must-win situation against Zimbabwe on Thursday, February 26, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. A loss in the upcoming fixture could eliminate the Men in Blue from semi-final contention.
For official tournament schedules and standings, visit the ICC T20 World Cup Hub.