Gavaskar Urges India to Include Kuldeep Yadav, Regardless of Bumrah's Fitness, for Second Test Against England

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

Following India's recent defeat to England by five wickets, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar is urging the team to make strategic changes to their playing XI, emphasizing the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav. Gavaskar suggests Yadav should take the place of Shardul Thakur for the second Test in Birmingham, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin.

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

Thakur, who was playing his first Test in over two years, had a minimal impact on the game. He bowled only six overs in the first innings, conceding 38 runs without taking a wicket, and scored just five runs in both innings combined. Although he briefly shone in the second innings by dismissing Ben Stokes and Harry Brook with consecutive balls, Gavaskar felt that his overall performance was not convincing enough.

Kuldeep Yadav, a leg-spinner, has only played one Test in England, at Lord's in 2018, where he didn't manage to take any wickets. Despite this, Gavaskar believes that Yadav's variations could prove crucial in Birmingham.

Gavaskar also addressed concerns about the middle order, particularly debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both of whom were dismissed for ducks in the first innings at Headingley. Their dismissals triggered a collapse, turning a strong 430/3 into an all-out score of 471.

While Gavaskar is not yet advocating for their immediate removal from the team, he suggested a possible reshuffle if India falls behind 0-2 in the series.

"If the second Test doesn't go well, perhaps changes for Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair should be considered. I don't want to drop them right now. I would also consider Washington Sundar, which would strengthen the batting lineup and provide more variety in the bowling attack," he added.

Following their painful loss to England at Headingley on Day 5, India aims to level the series when they face England at Edgbaston, starting on July 2.