T20 World Cup – India Yet to Reach Peak Form, Says Bangar
T20 World Cup – India’s campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has been solid so far, but former India batter and cricket analyst Sanjay Bangar believes the team has not yet delivered its most dominant cricket. While the unbeaten run in the group stage reflects consistency, Bangar feels there is another level the side can reach as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
Steady Progress, Not Overwhelming Dominance
Speaking during a broadcast discussion, Bangar described India’s start as stable rather than commanding. Expectations surrounding the squad were exceptionally high, and although the team avoided defeat in the opening round, it did not consistently overpower opponents in the manner many anticipated.
According to Bangar, that should not necessarily be viewed negatively. Instead, he pointed to it as a promising sign that India’s strongest performances may still lie ahead, particularly when the pressure intensifies in the knockout rounds.
India navigated a challenging group that featured formidable sides such as South Africa, West Indies, and Zimbabwe. Remaining unbeaten in such company underscores the team’s resilience, even if the margins of victory were not always emphatic.
Squad Rotation Offers Strategic Advantage
One aspect Bangar highlighted as a major positive is the rotation within the playing XI. Every squad member has had an opportunity to feature during the group stage, ensuring that players remain match-ready.
This flexibility could prove crucial if injuries or tactical changes become necessary in the latter stages. With all players having experienced game time, the management has more options at its disposal.
However, Bangar did point out an area that requires immediate attention. India were guilty of dropping a few catches in key fixtures, notably against Pakistan and the Netherlands. In high-pressure matches, he stressed, such lapses can alter the outcome. Sharpening fielding standards will be essential as the competition stiffens.
Three Players Key to India’s Super 8 Campaign
As India prepare for the Super 8 phase, Bangar identified three cricketers he believes will play defining roles in the title defence.
The first name on his list is Ishan Kishan. With Abhishek Sharma yet to make a significant impact at the top of the order, the responsibility for aggressive starts now rests heavily on Kishan. His current batting form, Bangar noted, makes him central to India’s plans in the powerplay overs.
Next is Suryakumar Yadav, whose consistency across matches has stood out. Beyond scoring runs, Yadav has demonstrated an ability to assess game situations and adjust his tempo accordingly. In T20 cricket, where momentum can shift rapidly, that adaptability is invaluable.
Completing the trio is Jasprit Bumrah. While much attention has been directed toward India’s spin attack, Bangar believes Bumrah’s role with the ball will be decisive, especially in tight finishes. His control under pressure and ability to deliver in crucial overs could shape India’s fortunes in knockout encounters.
Challenging Fixtures Await in Super 8 Stage
India’s Super 8 journey begins against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The venue, known for hosting high-profile matches, is expected to draw significant attention for this clash between two strong contenders.
The team will then face Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Thursday. Their final Super 8 fixture is scheduled against West Indies at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens on March 1.
With tougher opposition and higher stakes ahead, India’s ability to elevate their performance will be closely watched. If Bangar’s assessment proves accurate, the team’s most compelling cricket may yet unfold as the tournament reaches its climax.