Edgbaston Test: Calls Grow for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion as India Seeks Series Comeback vs. England

Yadav in Contention as India Seeks to Rebound Against England

Following their defeat in the first Test, the Indian cricket team faces a crucial juncture as they prepare for the second Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham, starting July 2. The series currently stands at 1-0 in favor of England, and India needs a victory to level the series.

With questions surrounding the workload management of Jasprit Bumrah, and potential changes to the playing XI, speculation is rife about the team composition for the upcoming match.

The Indian team management has indicated that Bumrah will likely participate in only three of the five Tests to manage his workload and considering his injury history. The specific matches he will play remain uncertain. In the first Test at Leeds, Bumrah showcased his prowess by claiming a five-wicket haul in the first innings. However, he went wicketless in the second innings.

Kuldeep Yadav's Potential Inclusion

The exclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist-spinner, from the first Test sparked considerable debate. However, following the loss, his inclusion in the second Test is now under serious consideration. The pitch conditions at Edgbaston are anticipated to favor spin bowlers, making Yadav a potentially valuable asset.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar emphasized the potential impact of including Kuldeep Yadav in the team. "The team will have to give some thought to how we can bring Kuldeep Yadav into the XI, because judging by the approach we saw from the England batters in the first Test, Kuldeep — who bowls wrist spin — could be effective. Historically, England’s batters haven’t played wrist spin particularly well. So that is definitely something worth considering," Bangar stated.

Former India batter Subramaniam Badrinath echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that India should consider bringing in both Kuldeep Yadav and pacer Arshdeep Singh for the Edgbaston Test. "I think one change could be replacing Shardul — I’d definitely look to include a bowler. And maybe instead of Prasidh Krishna, I’d look to add some variety. So probably, my changes would be Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav coming into the XI. But then again, the final XI will depend on the conditions," Badrinath said.

Series Schedule

The five-match Test series between India and England began with the first game at Headingley, Leeds, where England secured a five-wicket victory. The schedule for the remaining matches is as follows:

• Second Test: Edgbaston, Birmingham (July 2-6)
• Third Test: Lord’s, London (July 10-14)
• Fourth Test: Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester (July 23-27)
• Fifth Test: Kennington Oval, London (July 31 – August 4)

This series forms part of the ongoing World Test Championship cycle.