Legendary spinner Anil Kumble believes that head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma should maintain their strategy of employing a four-spinner attack for the crucial Champions Trophy semifinal against Australia. India made a daring decision by including Varun Chakaravarthy as the fourth spinner in the lineup against New Zealand, replacing Harshit Rana. Initially, this choice faced criticism from fans; however, it ultimately proved to be highly effective. Varun's performance left the New Zealand batters perplexed, enabling India to successfully defend a target of 250 runs. He emerged as the standout bowler for India, achieving his first ODI five-wicket haul.

Kumble, who has previously served as India's coach, indicated that the pitch is likely to provide similar support to spinners as it did in the match against New Zealand, asserting that Varun will be a key player in the lineup.

"I don't anticipate any changes in the surface. It should remain consistent with what we observed against New Zealand. I expect India to opt for four spinners, and Varun Chakravarthy will definitely be included," Kumble stated in an interview with ESPNCricinfo.

The upcoming semifinal is a rematch of the 2023 World Cup final held in Ahmedabad, where Australia defeated India, disappointing the home crowd.

Kumble mentioned that the only potential alteration could involve Mohammad Shami, who sustained a shoulder injury while batting in the previous match. However, he noted that Shami appeared to be in good condition while bowling, suggesting that India is likely to retain the same XI.

"The only possible change might be [Mohammed] Shami. He did take a hit to his shoulder, but he seemed fine while bowling, so I don't foresee that as an issue. I believe India will stick with the same playing XI against Australia and will not consider introducing another fast bowler," he added.

‘The conditions certainly suit four spinners’: Kumble

Varun achieved figures of 5-42 in Dubai during only his second one-day international, enhancing his prospects for selection. Notably, he has not faced Australia in any previous matches, which could provide India with an element of surprise.

Kumble, regarded as one of the finest spinners in the history of cricket, remarked that India possesses four high-quality options in their spin bowling lineup, which will facilitate their performance in Dubai.

"The pitch and conditions are certainly favorable for these four spinners. Each of them is of high caliber. Therefore, with 40 overs of effective spin bowling, along with the possibility of 20 overs of pace, I believe India has little to be concerned about," the former Indian leg spinner further stated.

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