New Delhi, July 30
As India gears up for the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval, questions are being raised about the team's bowling combination, particularly the absence of Kuldeep Yadav throughout the series.
With the series standing at 2-1 in favour of England and India looking to level things up after their spirited draw in Manchester, the wrist-spinner's name has once again entered the air.
Speaking on the potential inclusion of Kuldeep, former India cricketer Parthiv Patel said, "India should approach selection the way they've approached their batting -- with confidence. If Bumrah isn't available, India will need another attacking bowler. In this current bowling mix, Kuldeep Yadav offers that attacking edge as a wicket-taker. So from that perspective, I believe India should find a way to include him."
India has struggled to make room for its premier left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep in the final XI in the last four Tests. The world's best and India's pace spearhead Jasprit has already played his quota of three Tests, and his availability for the final fixture remains a point for speculation.
India's bowlers have struggled to pick up 20 wickets this series, especially on flat tracks that haven't offered much assistance. Kuldeep, who brings in the wrist-spin variety and the ability to break partnerships, could be the X-factor India need in London.
JioHotstar expert Parthiv added, "Whether it happens or not, I'm not sure -- but my opinion is that Kuldeep Yadav should definitely play."
Kuldeep hasn't featured in any of the four Tests so far, a decision that has been puzzling, given the lack of breakthroughs at crucial moments.
As the Men in Blue chase a 2-2 series result at The Oval, the spotlight will now be on the team management's selection call.
India's squad for fifth Test: Shubman Gill (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Kuldeep Yadav, Anshul Kamboj, Arshdeep Singh, N Jagadeesan (WK).
— ANI
Reader Comments
Why has team management been so stubborn? 4 Tests without Kuldeep when we clearly needed wicket-taking options. This is poor squad utilization. Hope they correct this mistake for the decider.
As a cricket fan living in London, I've seen how English batsmen struggle against quality wrist spin. Kuldeep could be the difference maker at The Oval which traditionally helps spinners later in the game.
While I want Kuldeep to play, who do we drop? Jadeja is our best all-rounder and Axar has batted well. Tough call for management but series is on the line - need to take risks!
Remember Kuldeep's fifer at Sydney? That's what we need now! English conditions might be different but class is permanent. Hope Dravid-Shastri combo shows some boldness in selection 🤞
Respectfully disagree - India's problem has been batting collapses, not bowling. Kuldeep's inclusion weakens the tail. Better to strengthen batting and trust current bowlers to step up.
Yaar, enough of this defensive mindset! We're playing to win the series, not draw it. Kuldeep adds attacking flair that can get us those
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