India’sT20 World Cup 2026campaign has hit turbulence following a crushing76-run defeat to South Africa, exposing strategic questions around team balance, selection, and in-game tactics. Critics and former players have now turned their spotlight ontohead coach Gautam Gambhir, arguing that his penchant for experimentation could be undermining India’s chances in vital Super 8 matches.
The recent loss was marked by controversial decisions, most notably theomission of Axar Patelin favour of Washington Sundar — a move that backfired badly as Sundar contributed little with bat or ball. Former cricketerSanjay Manjrekarlambasted Gambhir’s reliance on a single all-round solution for multiple problems, mockingly comparing it to a one-stop-remedy. He questioned whether strategic overcomplication is harming India’s on-field performance.
Amid calls for a more conservative approach, voices from inside and outside the cricketing world are stressing the need forclarity in team structure, fewer tactical gambles, and reliance on established performersrather than constant experimentation. These criticisms come as India faces amust-win situation in their remaining Super 8 matchesto keep semifinal hopes alive. How Gambhir responds to the mounting pressure — and whether he can rein in experiments without losing tactical edge — will be crucial to India’s prospects in the tournament.
