Aakash Chopra's Final XI for T20 WC: Varun and Abhishek in the Spotlight
Synopsis
As India prepares for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 final, Aakash Chopra champions Varun Chakaravarthy and Abhishek Sharma's inclusion in the playing XI, defying their inconsistent forms. Discover his insights and predicted lineup for the crucial match against New Zealand.
Key Takeaways
Aakash Chopra endorses Varun and Abhishek for T20 final.
India's lineup remains unchanged despite inconsistent performances.
Abhishek has struggled with runs in the tournament.
Varun's earlier success has been overshadowed by recent challenges.
Final match against New Zealand at Narendra Modi Stadium.
New Delhi, March 7 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has endorsed Varun Chakaravarthy and Abhishek Sharma to be included in India’s playing XI for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand, which is set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
In his commentary before this crucial match, Chopra indicated that he would maintain the same lineup and avoid significant alterations to a team that has successfully reached the final.
The former Indian opener expressed his continued support for both Varun and Abhishek, notwithstanding their fluctuating performances throughout the tournament.
"Although Varun and Abhishek have not had standout performances, they have made it to the final. Therefore, I believe it would be unwise to change the squad at this critical juncture," Chopra remarked in a video shared on his platform.
"Abhishek remains the top T20I batter, and honestly, I would also retain Varun. There might be a temptation to bring in Kuldeep, but I prefer Varun, as I trust that their form will improve, hence I am opting for an unchanged XI," he elaborated.
Abhishek has faced challenges with his scoring in the current tournament, accumulating only 89 runs over seven innings with a disappointing average of 12.71. Although he recorded a solid 55 against Zimbabwe, he also suffered three ducks against USA, Pakistan, and Netherlands, failing to provide reliable starts.
On the other hand, Varun Chakravarthy demonstrated strong capabilities early in the tournament during the group stages; however, his recent performances in the Super 8s and the semi-final have been concerning for the squad.
Varun had an average of 46.5 with an economy rate of 11.62 during the Super 8 phase and faced difficulties in the semi-final, where he conceded 64 runs against England.
Aakash Chopra’s anticipated playing XI includes: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh.
Point of View
The strategy of maintaining a stable team could be crucial in securing a championship victory.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Aakash Chopra support Varun and Abhishek?
Chopra believes that despite their inconsistent performances, the team has reached the final and changing the lineup might disrupt their momentum.
What has been Abhishek Sharma's performance in the tournament?
Abhishek has scored only 89 runs in seven innings, with a disappointing average of 12.71, including three ducks.
How has Varun Chakravarthy performed recently?
Varun started strong in the group stages but struggled in the Super 8s and semi-final, averaging 46.5 with an economy of 11.62.
What is Aakash Chopra's predicted playing XI for the final?
His predicted XI includes Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh.
Where will the final match be held?
The final will take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
