February 26, 2026
India have brought Sanju Samson into the XI for the Zimbabwe match after the Rinku Singh family emergency ruled the finisher out of contention. Team management confirmed the swap late Wednesday as preparations intensified.
The India World Cup 2026 campaign hangs in the balance. A defeat to South Africa dented momentum and dragged net run rate down sharply. There is no cushion left.
Samson offers flexibility. He can anchor and attack at the same time. The think tank expects him to steady the middle overs if early wickets fall.
The Rinku Singh family emergency reshaped plans within hours, forcing a tactical rethink ahead of this must-win tie. With India World Cup 2026 qualification at stake, every call carries weight.