India suffered a disappointing defeat in the second T20I against the West Indies at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on October 9, 2026. Despite posting an imposing 249/5, the hosts failed to defend their total as the visitors completed a remarkable chase with six wickets and nine balls to spare. The result levelled the five-match series at 1-1, with three matches remaining.

Following the defeat, former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik shared his views on whether the team management should make changes to the playing XI for the third T20I, scheduled for Sunday, October 11, in Ranchi.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Karthik acknowledged that India could consider bringing in an additional fast bowler if the team management believes it is necessary. He suggested that Prince Yadav could be an option in place of one of the spinners. However, he urged India to avoid making too many changes after a single defeat.

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“Will they look at an extra pacer if they feel it is required? So maybe Prince in for one of the spinners. At the same time, genuinely, if I were in the Indian dressing room, I would not change it up too much,” Dinesh Karthik said.

He also discussed the possibility of including all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, pointing out that accommodating another player would require a clear decision about the existing combination.

“I think they are playing a strong XI. Obviously, if you want to play Nitish Kumar Reddy, I don’t see how they can fit in anybody. Unless you are resting somebody and the communication is very clear, I don’t see why you should change based on this game,” he added.

India’s current bowling combination features two frontline fast bowlers, three all-rounders and one frontline spinner. While the setup offers batting depth, the heavy defeat has raised questions about whether an additional specialist pacer could strengthen the attack.

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The availability of Prince Yadav and Nitish Kumar Reddy gives captain Shreyas Iyer and the team management options to consider. However, Karthik believes the existing combination deserves another opportunity rather than undergoing significant changes after one setback. With the series level at 1-1, India will look to address their bowling concerns and regain the advantage in the third T20I.