T20 World Cup 2026: Should India replace Rinku Singh with Washington Sundar in the playing XI?

Rinku Singh has played all the games for India in the ongoing T20 World Cup. On the other hand, Washington Sundar featured in only the last group game against the Netherlands on Wednesday, February 18.

Rinku narrowly missed out on selection to India’s squad during the previous edition of the T20 World Cup in 2024. His snub was questioned by fans as well as critics. However, he has not just been a part of the squad for the latest edition of the marquee event but has been given the crucial finisher’s role.

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batter, however, has failed to justify his potential. In four matches, he has faced 27 balls and only scored 24 runs at an abysmal strike rate of 88.89. There is no real need to read into his average of 12, as he has faced only a few balls in each of the four games. The Uttar Pradesh captain has hit only one four and two sixes so far.

While the batting returns have been disappointing, he has done brilliantly on the field. The 28-year-old has not only taken some good catches but also covered a lot of ground in the outfield and saved plenty in each game.

However, some fans and experts believe that Washington Sundar could add more value to the team if he plays instead of Rinku in the XI. Sundar returned to action against the Netherlands, which was his first competitive cricket match in over a month. He recovered from the side strain he sustained during the ODI series against New Zealand in mid-January.

Against the Dutch side, Sundar did not get to bat, but he did bowl four overs. However, he proved to be expensive, giving away 36 runs without picking up a wicket. India’s next three games in the Super 8s are against South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the West Indies.

South Africa have two left-handers in their top three, and so do Zimbabwe. Sundar likes to bowl with the new ball inside the powerplay and he could come in handy against the two African nations. He could be used in those two games. However, the team management will have to trust the Tamil Nadu all-rounder’s batting ability if they are to give him Rinku’s role. Sundar has not had too many opportunities in the finisher role, both in international T20Is and in the Indian Premier League.

As things stand, it seems likely that Rinku will hold onto his place in the side. However, he will have to hit his straps sooner rather than later with the competition only getting tougher in the Super 8s.

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