Former star sounds alarm on India’s late-over bowling ahead of T20 World Cup

As India gear up for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has raised a red flag over the team’s bowling at the death, even as he acknowledged their impressive run of form in recent times.

Speaking ahead of India’s opening match against the USA on February 7, Karthik noted that while the team has been dominant in the shortest format, their heavy dependence on spin could prove risky in pressure situations during the final overs. India are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Namibia, and the Netherlands.

India’s spin attack, led by Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel, has delivered consistently, helping the side maintain a strong winning record since their last T20 World Cup triumph. However, among the fast bowlers, Arshdeep Singh stands out as the most effective option, having picked up 31 wickets at an impressive average.

India have enjoyed remarkable success in T20 cricket, winning 27 of their 36 matches since lifting the World Cup, with just five defeats, along with two ties and one no-result. Their dominance was further underlined by their Asia Cup victory last year in the UAE, where spin-friendly conditions played to their strengths.

Karthik praised the team’s consistency but cautioned against complacency in a format known for unpredictability.

“The current Indian side is in outstanding shape. Winning close to 30 matches out of 36 in T20 cricket is extraordinary, especially in a format where even a single over can change the game. Their Asia Cup run was equally impressive, including multiple wins over Pakistan, capped by a strong performance in the final,” Karthik said.

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He also highlighted the competitive nature of the group stage, pointing out that while India and Pakistan are favourites, associate nations cannot be taken lightly. “T20 cricket doesn’t allow room for mistakes. A bad toss, dew in the second innings, or one expensive over at the end can tilt the game. Defending totals becomes extremely tough under lights,” he explained.

Karthik concluded by stressing that death bowling remains India’s biggest concern. “The team combination often features Jasprit Bumrah as the lead pacer, with Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube supporting him, while spinners do most of the work. This approach works in subcontinent conditions, but if the match goes deep and India are defending a target, the final overs can become a serious test,” he said.

Despite the concern, Karthik maintained that India remain well-positioned to make a strong impact in the tournament, provided they manage the pressure moments effectively.