Less than 24 hours to go for the India-Zimbabwe match in Chennai on Thursday (February 26), speculations are rife about India's playing XI for this must-win encounter. As reported earlier, two changes are likely to be made by the defending champions. Vice-captain Axar Patel, who was sidelined for the last two games, is set to return in place of Washington Sundar.
While this is an expected move, the bigger selection call is regarding the return of Sanju Samson. India's overdose of left-handers in the batting line-up has allowed opposition bowling attacks to tactically introduce off-spinners very early into the game. With the top-order not quite firing and the team in do-or-die zone, a change is inevitable.
Samson being a right-handed batter and fine spin-hitter means that his selection is a logical one and not just a reactionary measure. On Wednesday (February 25), Samson trained extensively not just as a batter but also by donning the wicketkeeper's gloves. The extensive training as a wicketkeeper all but confirms his return to the side.
India does have Ishan Kishan as the wicket-keeping option but Samson's return should see the Kerala batter taking the vital position behind the stumps. For now, it's unclear as to who will make way for Samson's inclusion. One of Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh shall have to sit out for the Zimbabwe clash.
Going by form and batting order stability, Varma is the optimal choice but he has earned a lot of goodwill through the matchwinning performance in the 2025 Asia Cup final. Hence, the axe could fall on Rinku and if it happens, the decision will be a harsh one, but the team management have no other option at this point. Especially with Varma also being considered as part of the leadership group.