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

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 strategic changes to the playing XI, specifically suggesting the inclusion of spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Gavaskar believes Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur for the crucial second Test in Birmingham, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin.

Kuldeep Yadav seen with teammates 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 recent broadcast. "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 recently returned to the Test side, struggled to make a significant impact in the previous match. He bowled a mere six overs in the first innings, conceding 38 runs without taking a wicket, and contributed only five runs with the bat across both innings. Although he briefly shone with the ball in the second innings, dismissing Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in quick succession, Gavaskar felt his overall performance lacked conviction.

While Yadav's sole Test appearance in England at Lord's in 2018 was wicketless, Gavaskar emphasizes that his variation could prove invaluable in Birmingham.

Gavaskar also addressed concerns regarding the middle order, specifically the performance of debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both of whom were dismissed for ducks in the first innings. This collapse significantly hampered India's progress after a strong start.

While Gavaskar is hesitant to immediately drop either player, he suggested potential changes could be considered if India falls further behind in the series.

"If things don't go well in the second Test, maybe Sai (Sudharsan) and Karun (Nair)," Gavaskar explained. "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."

Following their defeat at Headingley, India will aim to level the series when they face England at Edgbaston, with the match commencing on July 2.