Gavaskar Calls for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion, Questions Bumrah's Fitness Ahead of Second England Test

Wednesday - 16/07/2025 03:05

Following India's defeat to England, Sunil Gavaskar suggested that spinner Kuldeep Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur for the Birmingham Test, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin. Gavaskar also expressed concerns about the middle order, particularly Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair after their dismissals.

Gavaskar Advocates for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion in Second Test Against England

Following India's recent defeat to England, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar is urging the team management to consider significant changes to the playing XI for the upcoming second Test in Birmingham. Gavaskar specifically highlighted the potential inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, suggesting he replace Shardul Thakur, given the expected conditions that may favor wrist spin.

*Kuldeep Yadav alongside Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja during a practice session.*

"Whether Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, I think Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team," Gavaskar stated during a broadcast on Tuesday. "I do believe that he should come into the team for Shardul Thakur because the Birmingham pitch will be one where there will be just a little bit of help for the wrist spinner."

Thakur, who was making his first Test appearance in over two years, struggled to make a significant impact in the recent match. He bowled a mere six overs in the first innings, conceding 38 runs without taking a wicket. While he did manage to dismiss Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in quick succession during the second innings, Gavaskar believes that his overall performance did not warrant his continued inclusion in the team.

Kuldeep Yadav, a leg-spinner, has only played one Test in England, which was at Lord's in 2018, where he went wicketless. Despite this, Gavaskar feels that his variation could prove to be a valuable asset in the Birmingham Test.

Gavaskar also addressed concerns surrounding the middle order. While Gavaskar is hesitant to make immediate changes, he hinted at a potential reshuffle if India faces another defeat and goes down 0-2 in the series.

“If things don't go well in the second Test, maybe Sai (Sudharsan) and Karun (Nair). I don't want to drop them at the moment. 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 said.

India will be eager to level the series against England at Edgbaston, with the second Test commencing on July 2nd.