As India gear up for their crucial Super 8 encounter against Zimbabwe in Chennai, team selection buzz has already started making noise. With qualification scenarios tightening, the Chepauk clash is being viewed as a must-win — and possibly a match where bold calls could grab headlines. One name currently under the spotlight is Abhishek Sharma.

That’s despite the out of sorts batter - usually known for being a resoundingly good hitter of the white ball- doubling up as a useful off spinner for his country, something India may need in what’s up ahead.

Having said that, what are the usual permutations and combinations that India need to focus around and one that could decide the somewhat precarious subject of whether Abhishek Sharma will play the game or not.  

Let us find out:

Training session observations have sparked speculation: Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan were seen batting together in the nets.

Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav also spent significant time focusing on batting drills. Meanwhile, Abhishek Sharma- just a single double-digit score so far with 0 fifties and 3 ducks- did it was reportedly involved mainly in bowling practice.

Such combinations during nets often hint at possible batting order pairings or selection strategies.

India are considering a tactical shift for Chepauk conditions: Extra stability in the batting lineup could be prioritized. Experience in handling spin-friendly conditions might be a factor.

A flexible top-order reshuffle could be on the cards.

Abhishek, known for his explosive style, may be facing a tactical call rather than a performance-based drop — especially if team management wants a specific balance for Chennai’s slower surface.

Moreover, having said that, Chepauk as a venue needs precision instead of blind execution of just the power-riddled game.

A slow sort of surface that could have a trick or two up its sleeve to benefit spinners, Chennai’s Chepauk could be an interesting somewhat batting friendly surface in which the bowlers too, will have their say!

That is where Tena selection becomes such a crucial aspect.