Controversy erupts after India defeat in T20 World Cup, Ashwin questions decision to drop Axar Patel

Ahmedabad (The Uttam Hindu): India suffered a heavy defeat in the Super-8 match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, Team India lost to South Africa national cricket team by 76 runs. This was India’s first defeat in the tournament. However, more than the loss, the exclusion of vice-captain Axar Patel from the playing XI has triggered widespread debate. The decision to include all-rounder Washington Sundar instead has drawn sharp reactions from the cricketing fraternity.

Ashwin questions team management strategy

Senior Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin openly criticised the team management’s decision. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin described Axar Patel as India’s “Most Valuable Player” in T20 cricket. He recalled that in a previous match against South Africa, Axar had built a crucial partnership with Virat Kohli to help India cross the 170-run mark in a difficult situation. Ashwin acknowledged that using Washington Sundar against left-handed batters could be a tactical option, but said it was difficult to understand overlooking a proven and experienced player like Axar.

Coach defends move, strategy fails on field

Amid the controversy, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate defended the team’s decision. He stated that Sundar was considered a better option to bowl in the powerplay and control opposition left-handers. However, the strategy did not deliver results. Sundar bowled only two overs, conceding 17 runs without taking a wicket. With the bat, he scored 11 runs off 11 balls before getting out. His modest performance has strengthened criticism of the decision to leave out Axar.

Questions over team balance, must-win matches ahead

The defeat against South Africa has raised concerns about India’s team balance. During the middle overs, the absence of an experienced all-rounder who could contribute with both bat and ball was clearly felt. While chasing the target, wickets fell at regular intervals, further highlighting Axar Patel’s absence. With two Super-8 matches remaining, India now faces a must-win situation. The team management will have to reconsider whether tactical data-based decisions should outweigh the value of match-winning experience in the upcoming games.