Spin issue, dropped catches: Is India's 'best yet to come' in T20 World Cup?

Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESK
February 20, 2026
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Spin issue, dropped catches: Is India's 'best yet to come' in T20 World Cup?
India’s cricket team has shown solid but not dominant performances in the group stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, according to former cricketer Sanjay Bangar. While they remain unbeaten with wins over the United States, Namibia, Pakistan, and the Netherlands, there are areas for improvement ahead of the Super Eight stage. Bangar noted that India struggled against spin bowling, particularly in matches against Pakistan, Namibia, and the Netherlands. The team’s cautious batting in middle overs and dropped catches also raised concerns. Despite these issues, Bangar remains optimistic, stating that India’s best performance is yet to come. Key players like Ishan Kishan have become crucial due to Abhishek Sharma’s inconsistent form. Kishan’s explosive batting has been a highlight, scoring 176 runs in four matches with a strike rate of 202.29. Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah were also highlighted for their consistent performances, with Bumrah seen as pivotal in high-pressure situations. India faces significant challenges in the Super Eight stage, including matchups against South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the West Indies. Their ability to handle spin bowling and improve catching will be critical to their success in these matches and beyond.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/20/2026