Indian spinners dominate New Zealand, Australia gears up for spin challenge in semi-final

Dubai: India’s spin bowlers delivered a commanding performance against New Zealand, claiming 9 out of 10 wickets in their latest match. Varun Chakravarthy was the standout performer, taking 5 wickets on the Dubai pitch, which heavily favored spinners.

With India set to face Australia in the semi-finals on the same surface, the Australian batsmen are expected to face a tough challenge.

India fielded four spinners in their playing XI against New Zealand, a strategy that captain Rohit Sharma may continue in the semi-finals.

Recognizing the spin-friendly conditions, Australia held an intensive three-hour practice session at the ICC Academy on Sunday, focusing entirely on countering spin.

While senior players like Steve Smith and Travis Head opted for light training, younger players practiced rigorously. The Australian team brought in seven net bowlers from the ICC Academy, all specializing in spin.

These included left-arm slow bowler Harshit Seth, two left-arm orthodox spinners, two off-spinners, and a leg-spinner.

Speaking after the training session, Harshit Seth said, “The Australian batsmen asked the net bowlers to bowl at specific lengths to practice their drives and flicks.”

The first semi-final between India and Australia will take place in Dubai on Tuesday, while the second semi-final will be played in Lahore on Wednesday.