Sanjay Bangar Drops Abhishek Sharma, Flags Three Players Crucial For India

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has identified three players he believes are “extremely critical” for India’s prospects in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, while expressing concern over the continued poor form of opener Abhishek Sharma. Sanjay Bangar said the team has progressed through the group stage unbeaten but still has key areas that require improvement ahead of the Super 8 phase.

India completed the group stage with victories over the USA, Namibia, Pakistan, and the Netherlands, yet Sanjay Bangar noted that the performances have not fully matched the “sky-high” expectations surrounding the side. He pointed out visible issues against spin bowling, cautious middle-overs batting, and occasional lapses in fielding as areas the team must quickly address if it wants to dominate the knockout stages.

Focusing on the opening combination, Sanjay Bangar said that given Abhishek Sharma’s struggles—the left-hander has failed to score in three innings—Ishan Kishan becomes “player number one” in importance for India. He stressed that a strong start at the top will be vital for setting the tone in high-pressure Super 8 matches and could significantly influence India’s campaign trajectory.

Also Read: Ishan Kishan Dating Model Aditi Hundia: Family Gives Full Approval

Sanjay Bangar also highlighted Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya as the other two players who will be extremely critical going forward. He emphasised that Suryakumar Yadav’s ability to accelerate in the middle overs and Hardik Pandya’s all-round impact with both bat and ball provide the balance India needs in crunch situations during the latter stages of the tournament.

Despite the concerns, Sanjay Bangar remained optimistic about India’s title chances, stating that the team’s best cricket is still to come. He expressed confidence that with minor tactical adjustments and improved execution against spin, India can peak at the right time and emerge as one of the strongest contenders in the Super 8 and beyond.

Also Read: India's Relentless Supremacy Leaves Pakistan Facing Humiliation and Super Eights Pressure