Gavaskar Calls for Kuldeep Yadav Inclusion Amid Bumrah Fitness Concerns Ahead of Second England Test

Following India's recent defeat to England, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar is urging strategic changes to the team's lineup, specifically advocating for the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the second Test.

Kuldeep Yadav seen with teammates during a practice session.

Gavaskar suggests that the left-arm wrist-spinner Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur in the upcoming match in Birmingham, anticipating favorable conditions for spin bowling. Speaking on Tuesday, Gavaskar stated, "Whether Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, I think Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team… because the Birmingham pitch will be one where there will be just a little bit of help for the wrist spinner."

Thakur's performance in the previous Test, his first in over two years, was underwhelming. He took six overs in the first innings for 38 runs without taking a wicket. Although he briefly shone with the ball in the second innings, Gavaskar believes his overall contribution wasn't impactful enough to retain his place in the team.

Kuldeep Yadav previously played a single Test in England at Lord’s in 2018, where he didn't manage to secure any wickets. However, Gavaskar is confident that Yadav's bowling style could be crucial in Birmingham.

Concerns Over Middle Order Performance

Gavaskar also voiced concerns regarding the middle order, particularly focusing on debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair. Both batsmen were dismissed for ducks during the first innings, contributing to a batting collapse.

While Gavaskar is hesitant to immediately drop either player, he hinted at potential changes if India faces another defeat. "If things don't go well in the second Test, maybe Sai (Sudharsan) and Karun (Nair)… Then I'd also look at Washington (Sundar), so that it really gives you a more solid batting, and also get a little more variety as far the bowling is concerned," he elaborated.

Following their loss to England, India is determined to level the series when they meet again at Edgbaston.