India had a memorable time in the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Suryakumar Yadav-led side defeated New Zealand in a one-sided final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 8 to lift the coveted title. India became the first team to win three T20 World Cup titles. They also became the first host nation to win the trophy. Also, the Men in Blue are the only team to triumph in back-to-back editions of the T20 World Cup.
During the tournament, India almost had a flawless campaign, as they won all four of their games in the group stage, including the comprehensive victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in Colombo. In the Super 8 stage, India were clubbed with South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the West Indies in Group 1. India lost to the Proteas in the first game, and several fans and experts criticised the Asian giants. However, the team didn’t flinch and registered consecutive wins against Zimbabwe and the West Indies to storm into the knockouts.
In the semi-final, they defeated England in a high-scoring thriller before decimating the Black Caps in the summit clash. While the nation is celebrating the outstanding performance of the Indian team, it is interesting to dissect whether the world champions underutilised players during the global extravaganza.
3 players underutilised by India during T20 World Cup 2026:
3. Rinku Singh
Despite being India’s premier finisher, Rinku Singh did not get to play too big a role during the T20 World Cup. He started in the first few games but was sent to bat below the all-rounders. At No. 6, 7, and 8, it is difficult for a batter to make too much of an impact.
In the end, the Kolkata Knight Riders’ batter finished with a paltry average of eight across five games. However, the batting department was firing on all cylinders, especially during the business end of the tournament, and that ensured that the team didn’t miss Rinku’s services too much.
2. Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar joined the team late after recovering from the side strain and rib muscle tear he suffered in the preceding series against New Zealand. He was available from India’s game against Namibia. However, the Tamil Nadu all-rounder played just two matches in the campaign.
During the game against South Africa, Sundar played ahead of vice-captain Axar Patel. South Africa had multiple left-handers in their side, and this influenced India’s decision. However, the youngster failed to make an impact, conceding 17 runs in two overs and scoring a run-a-ball 11. The Indian team management received massive backlash after playing Sundar instead of Axar, and they dropped the former from the following game onwards.
1. Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav was expected to play a key role for India and forge a formidable partnership with Varun Chakaravarthy. However, the left-arm wrist spinner played just one game in the competition. It was the all-important game against Pakistan in Colombo. He bagged one wicket in three overs and gave away just 14 runs.
However, the remaining matches were played in India, and the Gautam Gambhir-led team management preferred a spin-bowling all-rounder in partnership with Chakaravarthy. Even when the latter was going through a dip in form, India continued to back him instead of dropping him and playing Kuldeep.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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