“I Would Play Both Kuldeep And Chakaravarthy” – Yuzvendra Chahal

Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal expressed his views on India’s playing XI for the T20 World Cup 2026. He strongly supported including both Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy, but noted that conditions like the dew factor could make selection challenging.

The team management has selected two specialist spinners, Kuldeep and Chakaravarthy. Chakaravarthy seems almost certain to play, thanks to his excellent performances over the past 18 months, while Axar Patel, the spin-bowling all-rounder, provides balance and flexibility.

This could make it harder for Kuldeep to secure a spot in the playing XI. Speaking to Sports Tak ahead of the 20-team event, Chahal emphasized that every player has a defined role in the squad. He praised the talents of both leg-spinners but pointed out that leaving out Axar would not be wise.

“I would play both Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy. But Axar Patel can’t be kept out. There is a fixed spot for every player. Hardik Pandya can’t be told to open the innings. He plays at six or seven. When India has a World No. 1 bowler in Varun and Axar is there is as an all-rounder, accommodating a third spinner is difficult as dew is heavy in India.”

“It also depends upon when the matches start. If the wicket is dry, three spinners can be played. Also, wrist-spinners can turn the ball on any wicket,” Chahal said.

“India can play three spinners against Pakistan”- Chahal

Asked if India should include Kuldeep Yadav against Pakistan, considering his strong record against the rivals, Chahal supported the idea, saying:

“Having played in Colombo, there is assistance for spinners, regardless of the dew. But the only question is if you want to break the combination. Kuldeep Yadav needs to play, keeping in mind that he will feature in the XI consistently because every bowler has a rhythm.”

“But it all depends upon the management and how they want to approach these things. During the match against Pakistan, India can take a chance with three spinners.”