Overview:
Ashwin raised concerns over India’s decision to send Rinku Singh in at No. 8. In his view, a player of Rinku's calibre deserves a higher batting position.
India’s stunning loss to South Africa in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash on Sunday surprised everyone. While every goes through good and bad times, South Africa’s dominance over India has led to backlash. Among the various reasons for India’s defeat, the absence of all-rounder Axar Patel from the playing XI stands out. Despite his importance, the Gautam Gambhir-led management chose not to include Axar.
Ravichandran Ashwin discussed India’s team selection, emphasising the need for stability in ICC tournaments. While he agreed on using Washington Sundar against left-handers, he stressed that Axar Patel, India’s T20 MVP, should not have been dropped, highlighting his crucial role in the team.
“I understand that the IPL is great for match-ups, but with 14 games, team changes are expected. However, in ICC tournaments, maintaining a stable team is key. I fully agree that Washington Sundar should be used against left-handers; that’s a no-brainer. But let’s not forget, Axar Patel has been your MVP in T20 cricket. His contributions have been crucial,” Ashwin said in a video on his YouTube channel.
🚨 Ravichandran Ashwin Raises Question on Dropping Axar Patel 🚨
— Rohan💫 (@rohann__45) February 22, 2026
“In long IPL seasons, match-ups and rotation make sense. But in ICC World Cups, stability matters more.
Yes Sundar can be used for specific roles. But Axar Patel has been India’s T20 MVP. Let’s not forget what… pic.twitter.com/4suMfFQznc
Ashwin praised Axar for his crucial partnership with Virat Kohli during India’s chase against South Africa in the final of the previous T20 World Cup. He mentioned that while Kohli’s experience was key, Axar was equally impressive. Ashwin believes that with more stability in the middle overs and a few wickets in hand, India could have successfully chased the target.
“In the final against South Africa, Axar Patel came in under similar circumstances. He stitched a much-needed partnership with Virat Kohli, helping India cross 170. While Kohli’s experience played a role, Axar was magnificent with the bat. If India had managed to keep a few wickets in hand and maintained stability in the middle overs, they would have successfully chased down the target in this World Cup,” he added.
Ashwin raised concerns over India’s decision to send Rinku Singh in at No. 8. In his view, a player of Rinku’s calibre deserves a higher batting position.
“Rinku Singh batting at No. 8 is simply not right. You have eight batters, and he’s coming in at that position. That’s not acceptable. No disrespect to Washington Sundar as he’s a great batter, and we all know his abilities. But South Africa taught India a valuable lesson, don’t come to these games unprepared,” Ashwin concluded.