Dew no issue for Varun Chakaravarthy, but Kuldeep Yadav may find it tough at T20 World Cup 2026: Anil Kumble

Former India captain and legendary spinner Anil Kumble believes dew could play a decisive role in the upcoming T20 World Cup but feels India’s spin attack is largely equipped to handle the challenge.

While backing Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar Patel to cope comfortably with a wet ball, Kumble admitted that Kuldeep Yadav may face a slightly tougher task under those conditions.

Kumble pointed out that the timing of the tournament, during February and March with several late-evening matches, could make dew a persistent factor for bowlers.

"Especially during the time of the World Cup in February and March, with matches being played late in the evening. It’s not going to be easy. As spinners, you tend to get used to bowling with a wet ball; it’s nothing new. However, one aspect that India can certainly take comfort from is that I don’t think it affects someone like Varun Chakaravarthy because of the grip he has on the ball and the pace at which he bowls,” Kumble said on JioHotstar.

The former leg-spinner stressed that Varun’s strong grip and flatter trajectory should allow him to remain effective even when conditions aren’t ideal.

“I don’t think dew will bother him (Varun) that much. Yes, it’s not the same as bowling with a dry ball, of course, but with a wet ball, I don’t see Varun struggling too much. Similarly, Axar Patel should also be fine. The one person who might find it a bit more difficult is Kuldeep Yadav with a wet ball because of his bowling style. Having said that, Kuldeep is also used to bowling in these conditions,” he added.

Beyond conditions and combinations, Kumble believes India are well placed to attempt something no side has managed in the tournament’s history: defending a T20 World Cup title.

“I think when it comes to World Cups, winning back-to-back titles is not easy, especially in the T20 format. No team has been able to defend its title, and this presents a great opportunity for India to do that. I certainly believe that the kind of form the team is in, and the strength of the playing squad, means India are well equipped to face any situation. India should certainly qualify for the semi-finals, and from there on, it’s anybody’s game. But I genuinely believe India have a great chance to win the World Cup and make it a truly special one by winning back-to-back titles,” Kumble said.