Shocking claims emerge ahead of India's crucial Super 8 match with Zimbabwe (IND vs ZIM). Reports suggest that in the Indian dressing room, there could be a possible disagreement between the head coach Gautam Gambhir and the captain Suryakumar Yadav. 

The playing XI of India for the South Africa match on February 22 caused a lot of controversy, as the defending champion handed a heavy defeat, which could hamper India's chances in the semifinals of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. 

Multiple batters including Tilak Varma, are yet to perform according to their standards. Should the Indian team management replace Varma with Sanju Samson? The question remains. According to reports, Gambhir and Yadav held different views on the matter. While the head coach wanted to play Samson in place of Varma against South Africa, the captain wanted to play Tilak. Eventually, it was Tilak Varma who went to play against the Proteas in Ahmedabad. 

Read More: Will Sanju Samson feature in IND vs ZIM T20 World Cup 2026 clash? India's batting coach reveals

The reports further claimed, backed by Gautam Gambhir and support staff, Sanju Samson was about to compete in India's opening match of the Super 8. Before the match, he conducted an extended practice session as well for preparations. Though, he remained on the bench.

Will Sanu Samson get a chance to play vs Zimbabwe?

South Africa defeated India by 76 runs, which put Team India's future in the tournament in uncertainty. Chasing 188, the co-host bundled only for 111 inside the 19th over of the second innings where Tilak Varma scored only 1 run facing 2 deliveries. In 5 matches of the 2026 T20 World Cup, the middle-order batter registered 25, 25, 25, 31, and 1 respectively. 

Will the team management continue with Varma for their next Super 8 match too? It will be interesting to see how the Men in Blue decorate their playing combination against Zimbabwe on February 26.