Key Points

India's batting coach reveals Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion depends on captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir's discussion. The spinner, despite strong preparation, hasn't played in the current series. With India trailing 1-2, the Oval Test becomes crucial for both teams. Yadav's Test record shows promise but his England experience remains limited.

Key Points: Shubman Gill Gautam Gambhir to Decide Kuldeep Yadav's Oval Test Inclusion

  • Kotak defers Kuldeep Yadav selection call to Gill and Gambhir
  • Spinner yet to feature in Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series
  • Yadav maintains strong Test record with 56 wickets
  • India trail 1-2 heading into decisive Oval Test
2 min read

Our captain, head coach will sit, discuss and decide: Sitanshu Kotak on Kuldeep Yadav's place in playing 11 for Oval Test

India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirms Kuldeep Yadav's playing 11 fate rests with captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir ahead of decisive Oval Test.

"Our captain and head coach will sit down, discuss and decide - Sitanshu Kotak"

London, July 29

Briefing on the inclusion of spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the playing 11 in the fifth test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said that the decision will be taken by captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir.

After the conclusion of the four Tests, India remains alive, trailing 1-2 as both teams return to London for one last contest of the five-match series

"Our captain and Head coach will sit down, discuss and decide. So, that hasn't been decided today. And even if it's decided, it's not my place to declare that. But it will be decided tomorrow," Kotal told the media.

Kotak praised Yadav for his preparation and dedication, but believes that, given the preparation, it's hard to say this player will actually play.

"Looking at the preparation, you can't say that this player is going to play. Kuldeep is an outstanding individual. He works really hard on his game. And not only bowling, you'll always see him batting. You'll always see him fielding. So, it's not like he's doing something different today," he added.

Yadav is yet to feature in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. He has played 13 matches so far in his Test career and grabbed 56 wickets at an average of 22.16 and an economy of 3.55. He also has four five-wicket hauls under his belt.

Yadav has played only one Test in England so far. He featured in the second Test back in 2018, where he went wicketless.

In the series opener at Headingley and the third Test at Lord's, India were outbowled by the hosts, leading to their downfall.

India forced a draw at Old Trafford in Manchester to stay hot on England's heels as the gruelling series heads towards its conclusion.

Indian squad: Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (vc, wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudarshan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Ananya R
Why so much hesitation? The Oval traditionally assists spinners as the match progresses. His batting and fielding skills are bonus points. Should be an automatic pick!
V
Vikram M
Respectfully disagree with some fans here. Conditions in England are different. His 2018 performance wasn't great. Maybe stick with Jadeja as lone spinner? 🤔
S
Sarah B
As a cricket enthusiast, I appreciate how Kuldeep keeps improving all aspects of his game. Whether he plays or not, his attitude is commendable. Future looks bright!
K
Karthik V
Team management is being too conservative. We're 1-2 down, need to take risks! Kuldeep could be the X-factor we need to level the series. #NothingToLose
P
Priya S
Hope Gambhir-Gill duo makes bold decisions. Our team needs fresh energy after four tough matches. Kuldeep's variations could trouble England's aggressive batters!

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