R Ashwin, an off-spinner, cited a lack of attention on developing spinners capable of dealing with difficult circumstances, and argued that tactical mistakes made during the match had exacerbated the problem.
India’s bowling assault faltered as the West Indies successfully chased down 249 in the second T20I on October 9, 2026, at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. Shai Hope scored an undefeated 102 from 45 deliveries, and Sherfane Rutherford added 84 from 37 balls, forming a 120-run partnership that led the visitors to win in 18.3 overs. India had scored 249 for 5 thanks to Sanju Samson’s 82 off 41 balls and Tilak Varma’s 44 off 18 balls, but the total proved insufficient. The result brought the five-match series even at 1-1, with Shreyas Iyer captaining India and Shai Hope leading the West Indies.
R Ashwin concerns about bowling quality and development.
R Ashwin compared India’s present bowling resources to the advantage had by former captains. He described Jasprit Bumrah as an excellent talent whose presence offered a big advantage in earlier stages of Indian cricket. Bumrah, according to Ashwin, had the uncommon ability to bowl defensively when necessary and to use a variety of slower deliveries, which separated him apart from most international bowlers.
Tactical decisions are questioned after West Indies pursuit.
R Ashwin also criticised particular tactical decisions made during the match. He thought India needed defensive bowling options and questioned Shivam Dube’s inclusion in the attack immediately following the powerplay.
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Mayank Yadav had taken the first two or three wickets in the opening six overs, reducing West Indies to 5 for 2, but Ashwin believed that Kuldeep Yadav should have been added to the bowling rotation earlier to capitalise on that advantage.
