Former Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble believes Varun Chakravarthy will not struggle while bowling with a wet ball in the upcoming T20 World Cup whereas Kuldeep Yadav could struggle a bit. Kumble reckons Chakravarthy would not find it difficult because of his grip and the pace with which he bowls in T20 cricket.
Chakravarthy is India’s first choice spinner in the T20I team and he is going to hold the key for the hosts in the T20I showpiece. Kumble reckons Axar Patel will also not find it difficult to bowl in dew conditions.
“…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,” Kumble said on JioHotstar.
“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,” he added.
Kumble believes the reigning champions have a good chance of winning back-to-back titles, which no team has done in the tournament’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.
India will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on February 7.
