India’s spin attack has been one of the standout features of their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign so far. But former South Africa batter Neil McKenzie does not believe that alone will tilt the Super 8 contest in India’s favour.
Ahead of the high-stakes clash between the 2024 finalists in Ahmedabad, McKenzie acknowledged the quality in India’s spin ranks. However, he insisted that the Proteas have enough resources to neutralise that threat if they execute their plans properly.
Speaking to The Indian Express, McKenzie pointed out that while India might have greater variety in their spin department, that does not automatically translate into dominance.
“Where India is slightly ahead of South Africa is that they’ve got a lot more variation in the spin department. But I don’t see that as being huge. It’s obviously a huge positive because you have all the variations, but it’s how you deploy them.”
He also emphasised on South Africa’s ability to counter India’s left-handed batters and manage match-ups smartly.
“Markram is more than a useful off-spinner. Also, with the left-handers, you’ve got Lungi Ngidi who can bowl in the up front one or two, and then in the middle, and the one at the back end. And his favourite ball is the slow ball into the wicket. So he is basically taking away from the left-handers as well. So they have got a lot of tools that they can use,” he added.
HOW HAVE INDIA SPINNERS PERFORMED?
There is no denying India’s spin trio has been effective in the group stage.
Varun Chakravarthy has been one of the most impactful bowlers of the tournament, picking up nine wickets in four matches and climbing into the top three on the leading wicket-takers list. His variations and control through the middle overs have regularly squeezed opposition batters.
Axar Patel has also played a crucial role, claiming six wickets in the group phase while maintaining discipline in line and length. Alongside him, Kuldeep Yadav has provided control and subtle variation, giving India multiple options depending on match-ups and conditions.
On the Narendra Modi Stadium surface in Ahmedabad, spin is expected to play a role, especially if the pitch grips. India’s ability to rotate between mystery spin, left-arm orthodox and wrist spin gives captain Suryakumar Yadav flexibility in the middle overs.
SOUTH AFRICA’S THREAT FOR INDIA
But South Africa are not short on answers.
Their batting line-up carries serious firepower. Ryan Rickelton has shown clean striking ability at the top. Quinton de Kock remains a dangerous aggressor in the powerplay. Aiden Markram can stabilise and accelerate, while Tristan Stubbs adds finishing muscle.
If the Proteas negotiate the spin phase smartly, they have the range to shift pressure back onto India quickly.
McKenzie also dismissed concerns about South Africa lacking a frontline spinner to counter India’s left-heavy batting unit. Keshav Maharaj’s experience will be key, and Markram’s off-spin offers tactical flexibility. Add to that Ngidi’s slower-ball variations into the pitch, and the Proteas possess multiple ways to disrupt rhythm.
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