Former India opener Aakash Chopra has stirred debate after naming his top five Indian batters against spin bowling in white-ball cricket. Notably, he left out stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
Instead, the former India opener slotted Abhishek Sharma at No. 5. The Sunrisers Hyderabad batter, despite facing some struggles against off-spin recently, has an outstanding overall record against spin in T20s, averaging close to 42 with his runs coming at a stunning strike rate of 184.60. However, he has had a quiet start to IPL 2026, managing just 55 runs from three innings at an average of 18.33.
At No. 4, Chopra picked Suryakumar Yadav. The Mumbai Indians star is widely regarded for his innovative strokeplay and ability to dominate spinners in the middle overs. His strike rate against spin in T20s stands at 132.30, while he maintains a healthy average of 39.20.
Rajat Patidar occupies No. 3 spot in Chopra’s ranking. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru skipper, who led the franchise to their maiden IPL title last season, has consistently thrived against spin. He averages nearly 45 in T20s against spin, scoring at a strike rate exceeding 168.
At No. 2, Chopra went with Shivam Dube. Representing Chennai Super Kings, the tall left-hander has been a destructive force against spin, thanks to his clean hitting ability. Dube averages above 40 against spin in T20s and has a strike rate north of 141. In IPL 2026, he has contributed 69 runs in three games at an average of 34.50 and a strike rate of nearly 157.
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Topping the list is Shreyas Iyer, who has built a reputation as one of India’s finest players of spin. The elegant right-hander’s sharp footwork allows him to counter spinners effectively off both the front and back foot. He boasts an average of over 43 against spin in T20s, while his strike rate is close to 139. In the ongoing season, he has made a steady start, averaging 34 aand scoring at a strike rate of 170 in three matches.Â
