Kuldeep Yadav did not get a chance in the first Test match played at Leeds.
Former England spinner Monty Panesar has advised to include India’s star spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI for the second Test of the ongoing five-Test series against England. After India’s five-wicket defeat at Headingley, Panesar believes that Kuldeep’s unique bowling can prove useful on the spin-friendly pitch of Edgbaston. Citing Kuldeep’s performance for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025 (15 wickets in 13 innings, economy rate of 7.07), Panesar said that this wrist spinner can trouble batsmen even on low-turning pitches.
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Kuldeep Yadav’s X-factor and bowling specialty
Panesar said in a conversation with The Hindu, “In Edgbaston, India can try an X-factor spinner like Kuldeep Yadav along with Ravindra Jadeja. The Edgbaston pitch turns a little. Kuldeep has something special, he does not need a turning track. In IPL 2025, he showed that even without much turn, he can create problems for the batsmen by bowling difficult line-lengths.” Panesar believes that Kuldeep’s slow pace and variety make him an aggressive option, which can prove to be a game-changer for India in this series.
Preference for Kuldeep over Jadeja or Shardul
Panesar suggested that Kuldeep could be included in the team in place of Shardul Thakur or Ravindra Jadeja. He said, “If Shardul Thakur bowls only 6-8 overs instead of 15 overs a day, then there is no point in playing him. Jadeja’s bowling is very fast, while Kuldeep bowls slow and with X-factor. Kuldeep should be brought in as the main attacking option.” Panesar believes that Kuldeep’s unique style and ability to take advantage of favorable conditions on the pitch can give India strength against England.
Monty Panesar’s trust in Kuldeep Yadav indicates a strategic change for India. After the defeat at Headingley, Kuldeep’s presence in the Edgbaston Test can give India new strength. The Indian team led by Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill can consider this advice, so that it can perform better in the challenging conditions of England. Cricket fans are eagerly waiting for this change and Kuldeep’s performance.
