ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and India are all set to face each other in Dubai on 23 February in a high-stakes pressure game, which has become a norm, owing to the intense cricketing rivalries between the two sides, when they come to play. An important aspect that could influence the outcome of this match is the composition and effectiveness of the spin bowling units in both squads.
India has opted to have five spinners in its squad, while Pakistan has selected three. This strategic difference raises intriguing questions about how spin will impact the match dynamics.
Spinners in the squad of India
India’s squad boasts a formidable array of spinners, reflecting their strategic emphasis on spin bowling.
The five spinners selected for the tournament are:
Ravindra Jadeja
A seasoned left-arm orthodox spinner, Jadeja has taken 226 wickets in 199 ODIs, with an economy rate of 4.86 runs per over.
His all-round performance in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy final against England, where he secured 2 wickets for 24 runs and contributed vital runs, was important in India’s victory.
Kuldeep Yadav
As a left-arm wrist-spinner, Kuldeep has claimed 150 wickets in 88 ODIs, averaging 27.87 with an economy rate of 5.10. His standout performance against England in 2018, where he took 6 wickets for 25 runs, largely dismantled the opposition’s batting line-up.
Axar Patel
Known for his accuracy, this left-arm orthodox spinner has taken 69 wickets in 64 ODIs, maintaining an economy rate of 4.51. In a recent ODI against England in February 2025, Axar’s economical bowling and a swift half-century propelled India to a comfortable victory.
Washington Sundar
An off-spinner effective with the new ball, Sundar has secured 23 wickets in 24 ODIs, with an economy rate of 4.84.
Varun Chakaravarthy
A right-arm leg-spinner known for his unconventional bowling style and variety of deliveries, Chakaravarthy adds an extra dimension to India’s spin department.
The Indian leg-spinner has taken 1 wicket in 1 ODI, averaging 54.40 with an economy rate of 4.40.
The inclusion of these five spinners provides India with the flexibility to adapt to various match situations and pitch conditions.
They can deploy an all-spin attack during the middle overs to control the run rate and build pressure, or utilise specific spinners against batsmen with known vulnerabilities to certain types of spin.
This versatility is a significant advantage, enabling the team to devise their approach based on real-time assessments.
Spin Contingent of Pakistan
Pakistan’s squad features three spinners, reflecting a balanced approach that combines spin with a potent pace attack.
The spinners selected are:
Abrar Ahmed
Abrar Ahmed, a right-arm leg-break bowler, has recently emerged as a key figure in Pakistan’s spin attack. While he has made a significant impact in Test cricket, his ODI experience is limited.
In his brief ODI career, Abrar has played 8 matches, taking 14 wickets with an average of 26.85 and an economy rate of 4.94. His best ODI bowling figures are 2/41.
Khushdil Shah
Primarily recognized for his batting, Khushdil Shah is a left-handed batsman who offers part-time slow left-arm orthodox bowling. In ODIs, his bowling has been rarely utilised, and he has yet to make a significant impact with the ball in this format.
In 14 matches, he managed to get 3 wickets with an average of 96.33 along with 6.14 economy.
Nonetheless, his inclusion adds depth to Pakistan’s spin resources and provides the captain with additional flexibility.
Salman Ali Agha
An all-rounder who bats right-handed and bowls right-arm off-break, Salman Ali Agha has been a consistent performer in Pakistan’s ODI setup. As of February 2025, he has featured in 34 ODIs, claiming 16 wickets at an average of 45.87 and an economy rate of 5.49.
The effectiveness of spin bowling in the upcoming match will largely depend on several factors, including pitch conditions, weather, and the batsmen’s proficiency against spin.
Pitch conditions and spin attack
The match is scheduled to be held in Dubai, where pitches traditionally offer assistance to spinners due to their dry nature. As the game progresses, the pitch may deteriorate, increasing the likelihood of turn and variable bounce, which spinners can exploit. India’s decision to field five spinners suggests a strategy aimed at capitalizing on these conditions.
Weather Factors and spin
Daytime matches in Dubai can be hot and dry which leads to quicker pitch wear and tear, which favours spin bowling.
However, if dew forms during evening matches, it can make the ball slippery, hindering spinners’ grip and reducing their effectiveness.
Batsmen’s skills in handling spin
Both teams boast batsmen with varying degrees of proficiency against spin. India’s batsmen are traditionally adept at playing spin, given their exposure to quality spinners domestically.
Conversely, Pakistan’s batsmen have also shown competence against spin, but their success will largely depend on their ability to read variations and adapt to the conditions swiftly.
No matter whether the bowling attack is either spin or fast, the match is going to be nerve-testing.
