Naman Dhir Confirms Batting All‑Rounder Role for India After Indore Victory

Although he displayed his bowling abilities, Indian cricketer Naman Dhir describes himself primarily as a batter during the current West Indies series.

Naman Dhir has emerged as a promising spin bowler for India, delivering an immediate impact with his off‑spin. In his T20I debut against the West Indies in Lucknow, he took 3 wickets for 31 runs, dismissing Shai Hope, Romario Shepherd and Matthew Forde.

After a wicketless performance in Ranchi, Dhir regained his form in the third T20I in Indore, taking 2/39 from three overs and dismissing Shimron Hetmyer for 43 and Kamil Pooran for 42, thereby ending a dangerous partnership that threatened India’s position.

Even though he allowed some runs, his timely breakthroughs helped India defend a total of 223 and secure a 14‑run victory. His five wickets in three T20Is have bolstered his reputation as a valuable bowling all‑rounder. Nevertheless, the Punjab‑born cricketer emphasises that his primary responsibility is batting, describing himself as a batting all‑rounder and outlining his role within the side.

“I am a batting all‑rounder. I had the chance to bat in this match but was disappointed not to convert my opportunity. While I do bowl, the Impact Player rule in the IPL limits my bowling chances, yet I have been bowling since I began playing cricket and truly enjoy it. Regarding my role, the coaches and captain have indicated that I may bat at positions six or seven, depending on the situation, making my role flexible. With the ball, I am tasked with delivering two or three economical overs whenever the team requires,” Dhir told Jio Hotstar after the Indore match.

The 26‑year‑old’s bowling talent was unearthed during the West Indies series. Although he has appeared in 37 IPL matches for Mumbai Indians, he has bowled only about 8.4 overs and remains wicketless. Despite his versatile abilities, he says he is not focusing on distant plans.

“I do not think ahead; I have no specific goals at the moment. I am simply playing cricket, enjoying the game, and wherever God leads me, I will follow,” he added.

Story first published: Monday, October 12, 2026, 12:45 [IST]

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