“That little bit is not worth” - Dinesh Karthik backs Team India’s selection ahead of Pakistan game

Former Indian cricketer and commentator Dinesh Karthik has stated that he doesn’t want to make any major changes to the Indian playing XI for the much-awaited clash against their arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, September 14, in Dubai.

Speaking exclusively on Cricbuzz, Karthik also asserted that someone like Shivam Dube would be of more value with the bat than what Arshdeep Singh brings to the table with the ball if the pacer replaces the batting all-rounder in the XI.

"Whoever I add in isn't going to add much in terms of what this team could be doing. Let's say for example you put an Arshdeep Singh in place of Shivam Dube. Yes, he will give you a little bit more with the ball but that little bit is not worth what Shivam Dube gives me with the bat. It is not Shivam Dube in isolation. It's what the team can do having that extra batter. So the whole batting approach changes," Karthik told Cricbuzz.

Furthermore, Karthik also heaped praise on India’s approach before moving into the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka next year, stating that an extra batter in the XI would tick all the boxes for the Men In Blue. He also felt that India has a clear blueprint with both bat and ball, a good sign before the mega event.

"I like this because of the way they play now, which is high intensity and high octane cricket, taking huge risks at the top and irrespective of the situation, going at a certain pace. And if you want to tick all those boxes, you need that extra batter. India are a strong team in the lead up to this World Cup because they know what they want to do. They have a clear blueprint with bat and ball and they stick to it, which is always a good sign six months before a World Cup," he added.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky365 and download the Sky365 App to start betting today!