NEW DELHI: Stand in ODI skipper KL Rahul on Saturday admitted that India’s recurring problems against spin bowling, especially on home soil, have become a growing concern, though he said he did not have a “definitive answer” for the dip in what was once a core strength.

His remarks come at a time when India’s batting group has repeatedly faltered against spinners in Test matches over the past two seasons, turning familiar conditions into a challenge.

New Zealand in 2024 and South Africa more recently handed India 3 0 and 2 0 whitewashes, built almost entirely on relentless spin pressure from Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel for New Zealand, and Simon Harmer for South Africa, on tracks offering plenty of turn.

"We haven’t played spin well enough in the last couple of seasons. I really don’t know why we did it earlier and why we aren’t doing it now. I don’t have a definitive answer. All we can do is to look at how to get better individually and as a batting group,” Rahul said on the eve of the first ODI against South Africa.

Rahul said the batting unit must reassess both technique and tactics, stressing that any improvement will take time.

“It won’t change overnight. We’ll look at what improvements we need and hopefully by the time the Sri Lanka and Australia series come around, we’ll be better prepared. We’ll also reach out to seniors who played spin exceptionally well," he added.

Echoing the worry, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently said that India’s “pathetic” batting against spin has made them “probably one of the poorest spin-playing nations in the world.”

Rahul said Indian batters now need to “seek answers” individually and sharpen their method if they are to regain their old advantage against slow bowling.

The skipper said he had not yet taken a close look at the Ranchi pitch but expected conditions that usually favour batters based on previous ODIs there.

“Historically, this is a good pitch for runs. We’ll assess it tomorrow and pick the team that gives us the best chance to win,” he said.

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Kohli’s return and focus on strike rotation

Asked about Virat Kohli’s intense nets session, where he spent considerable time on strike rotation, Rahul acknowledged its significance in the current ODI set up.

“In ODIs, singles are as important as boundaries. Virat is a master at that. We all keep learning from him. He’s excited to be back and his presence is always invaluable.”

With both Kohli and Rohit Sharma returning to the squad, Rahul said their experience was vital for a dressing room still recovering from the Test series setback.

“Their importance at any point is huge. To have senior players in the team obviously makes the dressing room feel a lot more confident.

Having their presence and experience helps out a lot of players in the dressing room and helps out the team. So, we are really happy that they are here.

"Winning is the most important thing. So, that is what we are trying to focus on. Trying to forget what happened a week ago and focus on the game tomorrow and see how we can put in a collective performance,” he said.

Rahul also welcomed the return of veteran all rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who will feature for the first time since the ICC Champions Trophy in March.

"Jaddu has done the job for India time and again. His experience is huge for us,” he said.

Selection calls and Pant’s uncertain role

Rahul said someone like Ruturaj Gaikwad remained an important part of India’s ODI plans despite limited opportunities.

“Rutu is a top-class player. He will get his opportunity at some stage and we are looking forward to giving him the chance and letting him show what he can do and do the job for the team. There is never a question mark about his skill and how good he is as a player. It is just about the right opportunities and the right timing has come.,” he said.

Rahul said the playing XI would be decided on match day and did not commit to including Rishabh Pant, even as a specialist batter.

"He is someone who has been with the team for a long time and everyone has seen what he can and can't do for the team. The players who are already in the team and who are coming to perform, sometimes you just have to wait for your opportunity.

"You will find out tomorrow who will be playing and who will be left behind. But obviously, he is good enough to play as a batter as well. But if he is in the 11th, then obviously he will take the gloves," he noted.

Rahul, who continues at No. 6, said India’s focus in ODIs remains on rhythm, clarity and reading the flow of the game.

“ODI cricket is about mindset. Everyone is good technically. It’s about reading situations better,” he said.

On the possibility of MS Dhoni attending the match in his hometown, Rahul said the dressing room too feels the lift.

“We all grew up watching MS. If he’s at the stadium, the players and the crowd both feel the buzz,” he said.

(With PTI Inputs)