India continued their dominant run in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026finishing at the top of their group with a flawless record in the league stage. Clinical with both bat and ball, the Men in Blue ticked almost every box as they outplayed their opponents to seal a comfortable passage into the Super 8 stage.

Now, the challenge intensifies. India are set to face South Africa, West Indies and Zimbabwe in Group 1 of the Super 8s. Their first assignment is a blockbuster encounter against the Proteas on Sunday (February 22) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With both teams carrying strong momentum into the next phase, the contest promises to be a defining moment in the tournament.

Amid the build-up to this high-profile fixture, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has weighed in with his thoughts on a possible change in India’s playing XI.

Sunil Gavaskar suggests one change in India’s playing XI for the match against South Africa

Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar predicted one likely tweak to the Indian combination. According to him, all-rounder Axar Patel could return to the playing XI for the Super 8 matches. Gavaskar was uncertain about whom Axar would replace, mentioning Arshdeep Singh as a possibility. He also raised doubts about whether Washington Sundar will retain his spot but indicated that he believes Washington is likely to continue in the team. He further explained that the conditions at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, especially a pitch expected to offer very little turn, may not suit a specialist wrist-spinner like Kuldeep Yadavwhich could influence the team management’s selection decision.

“I feel Axar Patel will definitely come back to the playing XI for the Super 8 games. Now, whether he comes in place of Arshdeep Singh, we will have to wait and see. Whether Washington keeps his place is another aspect we don’t know. My feeling is that Washington will probably keep his place. On a ground like the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, on a pitch with hardly any turn, the team management might not go with Kuldeep Yadav,” Gavaskar said.

Gavaskar pointed out that Kuldeep did not feature prominently against South Africa in the earlier five-match T20I series, implying that he may not be central to the current strategy against the Proteas. He emphasized Washington’s batting ability at number eight as a key advantage, highlighting the value of added depth and power in the lower order. Based on this combination of past usage and team balance, Gavaskar concluded that the only likely change in the XI would be Axar coming in for Arshdeep, while Washington is expected to retain his place.

“Kuldeep also did not play too many matches against South Africa in the five-match T20I series. My feeling is that Washington Sundar, being able to bat at number eight and hit the ball, gives him an advantage. So I feel only the return of Axar Patel in place of Arshdeep Singh will be the change,” he added.

Why the India-South Africa clash could shape the road to the final?

The India versus South Africa encounter carries weight far beyond two points. Both sides were finalists in the previous edition of the T20 World Cup, where India lifted the trophy in a memorable showdown. That rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity to Sunday’s contest.

In the ongoing edition as well, both teams are widely regarded as the frontrunners to reach the final. Their squad depth, recent form and big-match temperament make them stand out in Group 1. While West Indies and Zimbabwe are capable sides and can spring surprises, their recent record against India and South Africa does not inspire the same level of confidence.

A win in this opening Super 8 fixture would not only give momentum but also a psychological edge. In a tightly contested group, net run rate and head-to-head results could play a decisive role in determining who advances to the final. For India, maintaining their unbeaten streak will be crucial. For South Africa, it’s a chance to send a statement. With pride, history and a potential finalist spot at stake, the Ahmedabad showdown could very well shape the destiny of the T20 World Cup 2026.