As India prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, former wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has flagged concerns over the team’s death-over bowling, even while acknowledging their impressive form in recent times. Speaking ahead of India’s opening match against the USA on February 7, Karthik said India’s dominance in T20 cricket must not mask potential vulnerabilities in pressure situations.
Karthik pointed out that India’s heavy reliance on spin could become a challenge during the closing overs of matches. While the spin trio of Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel has delivered consistently, India’s pace resources appear relatively limited. Among the fast bowlers, Arshdeep Singh has emerged as the standout performer, claiming 31 wickets at an excellent average.
Placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Namibia, and the Netherlands, India enter the tournament as strong contenders. Their recent record underlines this status, with 27 wins from 36 T20 matches since their last World Cup title, alongside five losses, two ties, and one no-result. India’s Asia Cup triumph in the UAE further highlighted their dominance, particularly in spin-friendly conditions.
Despite praising the team’s consistency, Karthik warned against complacency in a format known for its unpredictability. He stressed that factors such as dew, toss outcomes, and one costly over can quickly swing momentum.
Karthik concluded that death bowling remains India’s biggest area of concern. While Jasprit Bumrah leads the attack, support from Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, coupled with a spin-heavy strategy, may be tested if matches go deep. Nevertheless, he believes India are well-placed to make a strong impact if they manage high-pressure moments effectively.
