T20 World Cup final: Should India persist with 'weak link' Abhishek Sharma or bring in Rinku Singh vs NZ?

As India get ready for the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, a debate has started over the team’s opening combination. Questions are being raised about whether the side should continue with Abhishek Sharma despite his run of low scores or bring in Rinku Singh for the title clash.

With the trophy at stake, the discussion has spread among fans and experts.




Abhishek’s numbers in the tournament have drawn attention. In seven matches, the left-hander has scored 0, 0, 0, 15, 55, 10 and 9, making a total of 89 runs at an average of 12.71.

Except for a half-century against Zimbabwe, he has not managed to score consistently, leading to questions over whether India should persist with him in the final.

The debate has gained momentum on social media, especially on X, where fans have expressed different views on the issue.

"You can’t take risks with a person who is consistently flopping. This is the final and we must go with full strength, without any weak link," wrote one fan, as cited by news agency IANS.

Another supporter said rival teams have already worked out how to dismiss him. "Abhishek has become so predictable. New Zealand will make sure he doesn’t score either. Rinku should come in."

There are also voices supporting the youngster. "Abhishek can be our X factor in the final. There is a big inning due from him. He might deliver big in the finale," another fan commented, as cited by IANS.

For the team management, the situation presents a choice: continue backing a player through a difficult phase or make a change before the final.

Attention is now on head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav. They will decide whether to stick with the combination that took India to the final or bring in Rinku Singh for the match.

At present, a change appears unlikely, but the decision will show whether India opts for continuity or makes a late adjustment ahead of the final.

India vs New Zealand final

Date & Time: India will face New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final on Sunday, March 8. The match will begin at 7:00 PM (IST).

Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

Live Telecast: Star Sports Network

Live Streaming: JioHotstar app.

Get the latest ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, IND vs ENG Live Score updates, including the full schedule, teams, points table, and key series stats such as top run-scorers and wicket-takers.