![Indian batters have struggled vs spin [Source: X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1772263508425_AbhishekSharmaandtheWestIndiesteam.jpg?type=hq)
Indian batters have struggled vs spin [Source: X]
The last match of the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 stage between India and West Indies is shaping up to be one of the most exciting contests in recent T20 cricket. The match promises to be a nail-biter, as it will be a do-or-die clash for both teams if they want to qualify for the semi-finals.
While both sides are hyped about the encounter, former West Indies captain Carl Hooper took a sharp dig while backing the Caribbeans to win the upcoming match.
Carl Hooper was particularly adamant about bringing Akeal Hosein back into the playing XI to add to India's spin woes, as seen in this T20 World Cup so far. However, while backing Hosein, Hooper also took a sharp dig at the Men in Blue over their Achilles' heel.
Hooper Backs Akeal Hosein For IND vs WI Clash
West Indies so far have had a relatively weak bowling attack compared to other teams, with mostly all-rounders making up the bowling unit. Hooper believes that the addition of Hosein will trouble the Indian batters, with Roston Chase still in the equation.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Hooper elaborated that Akeal's skill, accuracy and ability to strike and dismantle the batting line-up will be very useful for the red giants in exploiting the host’s weakness.
“I don’t understand why Akeal, who has also been the No.1-ranked T20I bowler, wasn’t included against South Africa. The idea to play Chase was to have an off-spinner to counter Quinton de Kock and the No.3 (Ryan Rickelton). But I really hate these match-ups,” Hooper said.
Hooper also vouched for Akeal to be used in the powerplay, as he has proven stats that can outshine other spinners in the first six overs of T20I cricket.
“In Akeal, you have a bowler who’s accurate, can bowl in the Powerplay with success. So, why would you not have him in the team?” the former off-spinner all-rounder stated.
Also Read: West Indies T20 World Cup 2026 Campaign Exposed; What's Next After South Africa Defeat?
Hooper Points Out The Insecurities Of Indian Cricket Team
Carl Hooper was extremely bold while pointing out the weakness of the hosts, as seen in Abhishek Sharma's early dismissals and Ishan Kishan's struggles in the group stage matches against Pakistan as well as South Africa.
Hooper cited the example of legendary Navjot Singh Sidhu, who could ferociously pounce on a spin attack. However, he underlined that that is not the case with the current squad.
“In our times, even a Navjot Singh Sidhu could take down a rival spin attack. But that’s no longer the case with the current Indian team. So, they (WI spinners) need to mix it up with a fair bit of flight and firing it in flat,” the West Indies veteran added.
India’s Spin Woes In T20 World Cup 2026
The struggles of the Men in Blue, especially openers, against spin are evident. Abhishek Sharma, who is considered a firebrand batter for the team, was unexpectedly dismissed twice for a duck by spinners inside the powerplay.
Ishan Kishan was also dismissed by Aiden Markram in the match against South Africa. Hence, exploiting them with Akeal Hosein may not be a bad idea.
Right-arm spin could cause Suryakumar Yadav’s men to lose early wickets, and the absence of a player like Navjot Singh Sidhu might hurt India’s chances on a grassy Eden Gardens pitch, which could also be exploited by West Indies pacers like Shamar Joseph along with Akeal and Roston Chase.
Also Read: Will Jacks Rewrites T20 World Cup Record Books, Equals Shane Watson
