Gavaskar Calls for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion in Second Test Amid Bumrah Fitness Concerns

Following India's recent defeat against England, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has urged the team management to consider strategic changes in the playing XI for the upcoming second Test in Birmingham, with a strong emphasis on including spinner Kuldeep Yadav.

Kuldeep Yadav in discussion with teammates during a break in play.

Gavaskar suggests that Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur, considering the anticipated conditions in Birmingham that are expected to favor wrist spin. Speaking on a recent broadcast, 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, who was playing his first Test in over two years, didn't have a significant impact during the match. His performance included bowling six overs for 38 runs without taking a wicket in the first innings, and scoring only five runs across both innings. Despite dismissing Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in the second innings, Gavaskar believes Thakur’s overall performance was not convincing enough to retain his place in the team.

Kuldeep Yadav, a leg-spinner, has played only one Test in England so far, at Lord’s in 2018, where he didn't manage to take any wickets. However, Gavaskar believes his bowling style could be a crucial asset in Birmingham.

Gavaskar's Perspective on Middle-Order Performance

Gavaskar also addressed concerns about the middle order, specifically focusing on debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both of whom were dismissed for ducks in the first innings at Headingley. This collapse saw India go from a comfortable 430/3 to being all out for 471.

While Gavaskar is not immediately advocating for their removal from the team, he hinted at possible changes if India falls 0-2 down in the series. He suggested, "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.”

Following their defeat at Headingley, India is aiming to level the series against England at Edgbaston, with the match set to begin on July 2.