As India prepares to embark on a crucial two-Test series against Bangladesh, starting this Thursday, the spotlight will be firmly on the host’s ability to tackle spinâa chink in their armor that has grown more apparent in recent years. Though India’s home record in the last decade, standing at an impressive 40-4, reflects a near invincible dominance, an uncharacteristic vulnerability against spin has crept into their ranks. This frailty could prove decisive against a rejuvenated Bangladesh, fresh off a commanding 2-0 sweep of Pakistan.
Despite being favorites, India’s concern centers on their star-studded batting line-up, particularly Virat Kohli, whose recent struggles against spin have been surprising. Kohli, once a towering figure in India’s dominance at home since 2015, averaging runs with ease against all bowling types, has seen a noticeable dip in form when facing slower bowlers. In his last 15 Tests since 2021, Kohliâs average against spin has plummeted to a meager 30, a far cry from his career-best days.
For a cricketer of Kohli’s stature, these numbers are more an aberration than a lasting trend, but they do reflect an area he will be keen to address. The former captain remains a cornerstone of India’s batting, and rediscovering his rhythm against spin will be critical to their success in this series.
Another key figure, skipper Rohit Sharma, has been prolific since moving up the order in 2017, often dismantling spinners with ease. His form, however, has seen a slight decline since 2021, with his average dropping to 44 in the past 15 matchesâsolid but far from his once-dominant numbers. Meanwhile, KL Rahul, another batter often trusted to handle both spin and pace, has found himself in a more troubling slump. Over the last three years, his average against spin in home conditions has shrunk to a concerning 23.40.
Collectively, these statistics suggest a broader issue for Indiaâa potential lapse in their historically strong ability to counter spin. For a nation famed for its prowess against slow bowlers, especially in home conditions, this is a trend that needs urgent correction. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate recently highlighted this concern following Indiaâs defeat to Sri Lanka in an ODI series, emphasizing the need to return to the fundamentals of playing spin.
There is, however, a silver lining for India in their young talents. Rishabh Pant, returning to Test cricket after a year-long absence following a serious car accident, will be a vital cog in the middle order. Known for his aggressive and innovative play against spinners, Pant boasts an impressive average of 70 in his last five matches. Additionally, Shubman Gill (average 56 in 10 matches) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (average 115 in five matches) offer further hope, though their numbers are bolstered by a series against England, a side lacking experienced spinners.
Bangladesh, in stark contrast, arrives with a formidable spin trio of Shakib Al Hasan, Taijul Islam, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, all capable of turning a match on its head. Their recent 2-0 triumph over Pakistan underscores their ability to compete at the highest level, and they are no longer the pushovers of old.
India will undoubtedly lean on the firepower of Pant and the promising form of Gill and Jaiswal, but the seasoned veteransâKohli, Rohit, and Rahulâmust step up if they are to avoid slipping into the same struggles against spin that have plagued them in recent years.
In the bowling department, India will likely field their ace pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj alongside the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, forming a formidable attack. Whether India opts for an additional pacer in Akash Deep or Yash Dayal or includes a third spinner in Kuldeep Yadav will largely depend on the nature of the Chepauk pitch.
As India gears up for a grueling season that includes 10 Tests and a potential spot in the World Test Championship final, this series will serve as a critical first step. Success will depend not only on the firepower of their bowlers but also on whether their batters can rediscover their magic against spinâa skill that has historically been their hallmark. Bangladeshâs rise only adds to the intrigue, making this a test of not just skill but resilience.