T20 World Cup 2026: Why is Rinku Singh not playing in India vs Zimbabwe?

Published - 26 Feb 2026, 18:24 IST | Updated - 26 Feb 2026, 18:46 IST

India will face Zimbabwe in Match No. 48 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in what is effectively a must-win clash for both sides. Both teams have lost their opening Super Eight fixture and neither team can afford another setback if they hope to stay in contention for the semi-finals.

Sikandar Raza won the toss and opted to bowl first, citing moisture in the surface as a key factor. The Zimbabwe captain felt the conditions could help restrict India to a modest total, which he believes would significantly boost his side’s chances in this crucial Super Eight encounter. India skipper Suryakumar Yadav, meanwhile, struck a calm and composed tone at the toss. He said the mood in the camp remains relaxed, adding that the team focuses on learning from every game, regardless of the result.

India have made a couple of notable changes to their playing XI for the must-win clash. Rinku Singh has been left out of the side, with Sanju Samson drafted into the XI. Rinku had briefly left the camp due to a family emergency but has since returned. However, the team management opted to keep him out for this encounter. In another change, Axar Patel comes into the side in place of Washington Sundar, who had missed the previous Super Eight fixture against South Africa. Zimbabwe have also made one change, with Tinotenda Maposa replacing Graeme Cremer in the lineup.

Happy with the decision, were looking to bat first. Boys are ready. Mood in the camp is relaxed. The way he spoke in the huddle (Hardik), experienced player, he knows what he brings to the table. Team required that and I think we'll have a good day tonight. Even if you win or lose, you learn something out of it. Just forget what happened in the last game. Play the same way as you've been playing last whole year. Enjoy the game and forget everything. Be fearless. Two changes: Axar comes in for Washington, Samson comes in for Rinku. Sanju will keep.

We're going to have a bowl. Not your usual Chennai wicket. Looks moist, want to give the best chance to the seamers. If we can restrict India to a low total, will go a long way. As much as we're feeling the heat, our opposition will be feeling the same. It's holding on alright. One tactical change, Cremer misses out, Tinotenda Maposa comes in.

Sanju Samson(w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

Tadiwanashe Marumani(w), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza(c), Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Tinotenda Maposa, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava