A victory in this last league match would secure India the top spot in Group A. However, holding that position may not be significant, as they are likely to encounter either Australia or South Africa in the semifinals, both of which boast strong spin attacks.
Despite winning two matches so far, Indian batters have struggled against spin, and New Zealand—who have also qualified for the semifinals—could present a formidable challenge.
India’s batters have been shrewd in taking singles and twos off spinners while opting for big shots against faster bowlers, who deliver the ball with greater pace and predictability.
Their previous encounter with Santner and Phillips during a home Test series last year, which India lost 0-3, doesn’t evoke fond memories, and now they also need to contend with Bracewell.
Initially, the decision to select five spinners—Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, and Washington Sundar—was met with skepticism due to the past success of pacers at this venue. However, the pitches in Dubai have turned sluggish after hosting the ILT20, largely justifying the selection of spinners.
The three spinners India has utilised so far—Jadeja, Axar, and Kuldeep—have adapted well to the conditions, making it challenging for their opponents.
