T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Axar Patel is central to India’s planning’ – Murali Kartik makes strong statement on India’s playing XI for Super Eight clash

Former Indian cricketer Murali Kartik has made a strong statement regarding India’s playing XI for their Super Eight clash against South Africa national cricket team in the T20 World Cup 2026. The high-voltage encounter is scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad on February 22.

Kartik emphasised that all-rounder Axar Patel must return to the side and predicted that he will have a vital role to play in the crucial fixture. Notably, Axar was rested for India’s final group-stage match against the Netherlands national cricket team.

Reflecting on India’s team combination, Kartik stated that the strategy of playing with eight batters to ensure batting depth has worked well so far in the tournament. However, he expressed concern over Abhishek Sharma’s recent form and said that the Men in Blue would be hoping for a strong performance from him in the upcoming game. Kartik further added that Abhishek’s contest against South Africa’s premier pacer Kagiso Rabada could play a decisive role.

“Axar Patel comes back. He’s absolutely central to India’s planning. I think the formula of going with eight batters has been working. The only bit for them is at the top of the order. Kagiso has not fired as the way they would have wanted. They will hope that the Kagiso vs Abhishek battle falls in favor of Abhishek,” said Kartik on Cricbuzz.

Abhishek has endured a difficult start to the tournament, failing to open his account and registering three successive ducks in as many matches. His poor run of form has become a concern for the team heading into the Super Eight stage. Speaking about the situation, Kartik refrained from offering any technical advice but stated that India would simply hope for Abhishek to rediscover his form at this crucial juncture of the competition.

“They would want these guys to come back roaring into form. Abhishek is yet to open his account and there has been a certain pattern to his dismissals as well. It will be interesting how he looks at it. Enough people are having their own say on how he should go about it,” said Kartik.

Kartik also addressed the form of Tilak Varma, who has struggled to produce his best performances in the tournament so far. Despite the inconsistency, Kartik expressed confidence in the young batter, stating that it was only a matter of time before he found his rhythm. He added that if Tilak gets going, India could truly enjoy themselves with the bat in Ahmedabad. In four matches, Tilak has scored 106 runs at an average of 26.50 and a strike rate of 120.45.

“With regards to Tilak Varma, Surya wants him at three and he’s had a good run there. It is maybe a question of time and a matter of time. If he also starts working out maybe they will enjoy Ahmedabad tomorrow. It is to his liking,” said Kartik.

Get every cricket updates! Follow Us: