India’s Left-Hander Overload: A T20 World Cup Headache
Hours before India faces South Africa in the Super 8 stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup, the team faces major selection drama. Cricket experts like Mohammad Kaif are urgently calling for keeper-batter Sanju Samson’s inclusion to solve a critical imbalance.
Too Many Left-Handers Cause Chaos
India’s batting order has a glaring weakness: nine left-handed batsmen! The top three—Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Tilak Varma—all swing from the left side. They’re followed by Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Arshdeep Singh. Opposing teams have spotted this pattern and unleashed right-arm off-spinners, stifling India’s scoring to just 6.36 runs per over during group stages.
Kaif’s Samson Solution
While coaches Ryan ten Doeschate and Morne Morkel defend the left-handers’ aggressive style, Mohammad Kaif sees disaster brewing. He argues opponents easily plan tactics against India’s left-heavy lineup. Kaif tweeted: “Adding Sanju Samson could help… He provides balance as a right-hander who plays spin well.” Samson’s inclusion could disrupt opposition strategies targeting India’s lefty dominance.
Aiden Markram: South Africa’s Secret Weapon
Meanwhile, ex-pacer Varun Aaron warns that South African captain Aiden Markram poses the biggest threat. Markram’s tournament stats are terrifying: 178 runs in four innings at a 190 strike rate with two fifties. Aaron stressed, “He has the technique to counter Jasprit Bumrah,” urging India to dismiss him early.
Sundar Could Counter South Africa’s Lefties
Aaron also pushed for Washington Sundar’s selection. South Africa boasts dangerous left-handers like Quinton de Kock and David Miller. Sundar’s off-spin could exploit Ahmedabad’s slow pitch while troubling these key batters. This tactical move might give India the edge they desperately need.
