New Delhi, Feb 11 (NationPress) Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar suggests that Washington Sundar may not be part of India's lineup for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against Namibia in Delhi, despite the all-rounder having returned to fitness.

India kicked off their campaign with a 29-run victory over the USA, although the batting lineup faced some tense moments despite clinching the win. As they gear up for their next group stage match, focus is shifting to the potential makeup of the playing XI, especially with Sundar back in the frame.

The off-spin bowling all-rounder, who has been recuperating from a side strain and rib injury, participated in fielding drills during Tuesday's practice and later bowled to Tilak Varma alongside Kuldeep Yadav. He was also seen having detailed discussions with head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar as the management evaluated his match readiness.

“It’s excellent news that Washington Sundar is rejoining the team, as the Indian management has been patient with him and holds significant confidence in his capabilities. Their decision to keep him in the squad, even when he was unavailable at the tournament's start, indicates a desire to maintain a consistent team structure. If there's a need for a spin-bowling all-rounder, Sundar is undoubtedly an option. However, I don’t foresee him playing in Delhi. I certainly anticipate Jasprit Bumrah making the playing eleven, with the in-form Mohammed Siraj likely being the one to sit out,” Bangar commented to JioStar regarding Sundar’s improved fitness and potential alterations to the playing XI.

Bangar also advised the Indian batters to stay confident in their approach, despite the challenges faced against the USA, emphasizing that their aggressive strategy has yielded consistent success recently.

“I don’t believe Indian batters should overanalyze what transpired at Wankhede against the USA, as the approach this Indian batting lineup employs in T20 cricket is inherently risky. On days when wickets fall, the desire to keep pressing forward may lead to losing wickets in clusters. The key takeaway is to perhaps ease off a bit, but maintain confidence in their approach because that fearless style has brought substantial success. Continue to trust your abilities and play as this Indian batting unit has been doing in T20 cricket over the last year and a half,” he stated.

Highlighting the batting order's balance, Bangar noted the combination of composure and attacking intent among critical players.

“When I analyze this Indian batting lineup, it showcases a fantastic blend of maturity and fearlessness. With maturity, you have players who can adapt to the situation's needs. Tilak Varma, Surya, and Hardik embody this style. If India finds themselves in a similar situation again, one of these three may need to stabilize the innings while the others continue to play their aggressive game. This is a discussion the team and batting group might have moving forward,” he added.

As India seeks to refine their combinations and build momentum, they continue their campaign in the capital.