In the ongoing Test series, Team India has fought valiantly under Shubman Gill’s leadership. Despite a mountain of injuries, they have taken every blow that England has thrown, countered with their quips, and kept the series alive. However, one question remains in the minds of all Indian fans as the fourth Test in Manchester draws near: where is Kuldeep Yadav?
The left-arm wrist-spinner, who tormented England on home soil in early 2024, has been warming the bench throughout the series. Despite the attacking nature of England’s batting, Gautam Gambhir’s team management has continued to rely on other combinations. But not everyone agrees, including former India coach Sanjay Bangar.
“Kuldeep Yadav should’ve played from first 1st Test”
Speaking to JioStar, Bangar made his frustration clear. He believes the selectors missed a trick by not picking Kuldeep from the very start of the tour. In the series-opener, India went ahead with four pace-bowling option and Ravindra Jadeja as sole spinner. After a humbling loss at Leeds, Gill brought wholesale changes, but Kuldeep wasn’t considered.
“If India had read the conditions correctly, Kuldeep Yadav should have played from the first Test itself. Now, since he hasn’t featured in any of the matches and the players who’ve played in his place have done well, it becomes tricky. Washington Sundar, for instance, played a key role in bringing India back into the contest at Lord’s with his four-wicket haul — it’s hard to leave someone like that out of the playing XI,” Bangar said.
“If Kuldeep is brought in to bat at No. 7, it could compromise the team’s desired batting depth. I see Shardul Thakur, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar playing alongside the three main pacers,” he added.
Pitch, injuries, and Kuldeep’s big opportunity?
With Michael Atherton predicting a slow surface at Old Trafford, Kuldeep’s style of bowling could prove effective. Reports from CricBlogger suggest the management is now leaning towards including him, especially with Akash Deep nursing a groin injury and is ruled out of the Test. An unfortunate injury to Nitish Kumar Reddy has opened the door for a spot in the team.
India, at Old Trafford, have the best chance to include Kuldeep in the mix. However, if selected, there would be a huge burden on the shoulders of the left-arm wrist spinner to provide crucial blows everytime he bowls. An unfair hope from someone playing his first match of the series.
