IND vs SA: Will Abhishek Sharma get dropped for Sanju Samson after three ducks? Suryakumar Yadav drops "I am worried" statement

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Abhishek Sharma is having a horrible campaign in T20 World Cup 2026.
Unbeaten defending champions India face a formidable, also-undefeated, South Africa in a blockbuster Super 8 game of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Sunday.
Suryakumar Yadav‘s side stormed through the group stage with dominant wins, including a victory over Pakistan. Ishan Kishan’s aggressive form has been a highlight, while the bowling unit is led by Jasprit Bumrah and Chakravarthy.
South Africa, under Aiden Markram, topped their group with comprehensive victories, including a tense super-over win over Afghanistan, showcasing batting depth with Quinton de Kock, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, and David Miller. Their pace attack featuring Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi, poses significant threats on a batting-friendly Ahmedabad pitch.
“I am worried..” Suryakumar Yadav on Abhishek Sharma’s form ahead of IND vs SA Super 8 clash in T20 World Cup 2026

The spotlight ahead of IND vs SA remains firmly on Abhishek Sharma. The Indian opener has been struggling for form, with three ducks in three matches. His form was hampered by illness, which caused him to miss the Namibia encounter.
With IND vs SA around the corner, captain Suryakumar Yadav was asked about Abhishek Sharma’s form. He, however, expressed his confidence in Sharma, saying that he is worried about people who are worrying about him. He backed the opener to come out good, saying:
“I am worried about the people who are worrying about Abhishek Sharma. I am more concerned for the teams that will face him later. He did everything last year, now it’s time for us to return the favour,” said captain Suryakumar Yadav to reporters.
Sharma is the No. 1-ranked T20I batter, and had been in formidable form building up to the T20 World Cup. His ability to single-handedly win games is no secret, and India continues to back the left-handed opener despite his recent form.
When is the IND vs SA Super 8 match?
The match will be played on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
What is the key talking point before the match?
Abhishek Sharma’s form remains under focus despite strong backing from the Indian captain and team management.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.