Gavaskar Urges India to Unleash Kuldeep Yadav in Second Test, Regardless of Bumrah's Fitness

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

Following India's setback against England in the Leeds Test, former captain Sunil Gavaskar has suggested strategic changes to the team's composition, emphasizing the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav. Gavaskar believes the spinner should replace Shardul Thakur in the second Test held in Birmingham, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin.

"Regardless of Jasprit Bumrah's fitness, Kuldeep Yadav must be included in the team. I believe he should substitute Shardul Thakur because the Birmingham pitch is likely to offer some assistance to wrist spinners," Gavaskar commented during a broadcast on Tuesday.

Thakur, who was playing his first Test in over two years, had a limited impact, bowling six overs in the first innings for 38 runs without taking a wicket, and scoring only five runs in both innings combined. Although he briefly showed promise in the second innings by dismissing Ben Stokes and Harry Brook with consecutive deliveries, Gavaskar felt his overall performance was not compelling enough.

Kuldeep Yadav, a leg-spinner, has only played one Test in England, at Lord's in 2018, where he didn't take any wickets. Despite this, Gavaskar thinks his variety could be important in Birmingham.

Gavaskar also discussed concerns about the middle order, especially debutants Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both of whom were out for ducks in the first innings at Headingley, which caused a collapse from 430/3 to 471 all out.

While not advocating for their immediate removal, Gavaskar suggested a possible adjustment if India falls behind 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.

Following their defeat to England at Headingley, India aims to equalize the series when they meet England at Edgbaston, beginning on July 2.