Naman Dhir’s explosive finish strengthens India’s case for a new all-rounder

Dhir makes his case with bat and ball

Naman Dhir has moved sharply into contention for a role in India’s lower middle order, turning limited opportunities into two eye-catching finishes. After an unbeaten 24 from six balls in the rain-shortened final T20I against West Indies in Bengaluru, he followed up five days later with an unbeaten 42 from 15 deliveries to guide India to victory over New Zealand in Christchurch.

A balance India have struggled to find

India have sought a middle-order batter who can also contribute useful overs since the 2019 ODI World Cup. The team has leaned on Hardik Pandya as a seam-bowling all-rounder, while Ravindra Jadeja’s role has gradually diminished. Axar Patel and Washington Sundar have both had opportunities, but neither has secured the position over an extended stretch.

At the start of 2026, Riyan Parag and Ayush Badoni appeared ahead in the order of preference, before Parag’s hamstring injury. Dhir’s recent displays have brought him into the forefront of the selection discussion. His off-spin offers a matchup option, while his ability to score quickly gives India a finishing threat that the other candidates have not consistently supplied.

Iyer praises composure and flexibility

India T20I captain Shreyas Iyer highlighted Dhir’s usefulness against different batting matchups and his poise under pressure. “He gives us a lot of options, especially against left-handers with his off-spin, and even against right-handers on certain surfaces. Those two or three crucial overs can change the momentum of a game,” Iyer said after Thursday’s opening T20I. He added: “The calm and composure he showed with the bat was magnificent.”

Dhir is still making his case, rather than having secured a permanent place. But his recent cameos have showcased the combination India need: late-innings acceleration and the ability to provide overs, particularly in conditions where the team wants greater flexibility.