India and West Indies are set for a high-stakes showdown at Eden Gardens on Sunday, with a T20 World Cup semi-final berth riding on the outcome. The knockout equation has amplified anticipation among fans, while conversations have now shifted firmly towards India’s likely playing XI.
India head into the contest on the back of a commanding 72-run win over Zimbabwe. However, with this being a do-or-die fixture, the team combination is under scrutiny, especially after a few notable absentees at Saturday’s practice session.
Sanju Samson under scanner
Sanju Samson finally got his opportunity in the tournament against Zimbabwe, but failed to convert his start into a match-defining knock. The wicketkeeper-batter managed 24 off 14 deliveries before departing, unable to anchor the innings despite a strong crowd backing in Chennai.
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His absence from Saturday’s training session raised fresh speculation over his place in the XI. However, with Rinku Singh rejoining the squad only on Saturday evening following his father’s demise, his immediate inclusion appears unlikely. That factor could work in Samson’s favour, potentially allowing him another chance in this crucial encounter.
Bowling unit in focus
Hardik Pandya was also missing from practice, but there is virtually no possibility of him being left out. The all-rounder smashed a blistering half-century against Zimbabwe and remains central to India’s balance in pressure games.
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Meanwhile, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel were seen training separately in the nets, indicating their strategic importance for Sunday’s clash. Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan spent considerable time batting in adjacent nets, suggesting they too are firmly in contention.
Barring any last-minute tactical tweak, major changes appear unlikely.
India’s probable XI
Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy.
