Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Legendary spinner Anil Kumble has thrown his weight behind Varun Chakravarthy to lead India’s spin department at next month’s T20 World Cup, expressing confidence that the mystery spinner will cope better with evening dew than wrist spinners such as Kuldeep Yadav. The marquee event will be staged from February 7 to March 8 across venues in India and Sri Lanka.Speaking on JioHotstar, Kumble acknowledged that dew is expected to be a significant factor during the tournament.
“…especially during the time of the World Cup in February and March, with matches being played late in the evening. It’s not going to be easy. As spinners, you tend to get used to bowling with a wet ball; it’s nothing new.“However, one aspect that India can certainly take comfort from is that I don’t think it affects someone like Varun Chakaravarthy because of the grip he has on the ball and the pace at which he bowls.”India’s spin trio of Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel have delivered consistent performances in recent months, but Kumble highlighted Varun as the standout among them.“I don’t think dew will bother him (Varun) that much. Yes, it’s not the same as bowling with a dry ball, of course, but with a wet ball, I don’t see Varun struggling too much.“Similarly, Axar Patel should also be fine. The one person who might find it a bit more difficult is Kuldeep Yadav with a wet ball because of his bowling style. Having said that, Kuldeep is also used to bowling in these conditions.”Given their method of delivery, wrist spinners are generally more vulnerable when operating with a wet ball.India head into the tournament in impressive form and currently hold a 3-0 lead in the ongoing five-match T20I series against New Zealand.Kumble also feels the defending champions are well placed to attempt a rare title defence — a feat yet to be achieved in the competition’s history.“I think when it comes to World Cups, winning back-to-back titles is not easy, especially in the T20 format. No team has been able to defend its title, and this presents a great opportunity for India to do that.“I certainly believe that the kind of form the team is in, and the strength of the playing squad, means India are well equipped to face any situation. India should certainly qualify for the semi-finals, and from there on, it’s anybody’s game.“But I genuinely believe India have a great chance to win the World Cup and make it a truly special one by winning back-to-back titles,” Kumble said.
