Pressure Mounts on India to Unleash Kuldeep Yadav in Edgbaston Test After Leeds Defeat

India vs. England: Calls Grow for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion in Second Test

As India prepares for the second Test against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 2nd, discussions are intensifying regarding potential changes to the team's composition following their defeat in the first Test. Key questions revolve around Jasprit Bumrah's participation, the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, and overall adjustments to the playing XI to level the series 1-1.

Kuldeep Yadav in action (BCCI Photo)

The Indian team management has previously indicated that Bumrah's workload will be managed, limiting him to three of the five Tests due to his history with injuries.

In the first Test at Leeds, Bumrah showcased his prowess by claiming a five-wicket haul in the first innings, but went without a wicket in the second innings.

The exclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, a left-arm wrist spinner, from the first Test has sparked considerable debate. Following the loss, his inclusion in the second Test is now under serious consideration, given expectations that the Birmingham pitch will favor spin bowlers.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar emphasized the potential impact of Kuldeep Yadav, stating on Star Sports, "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."

Subramaniam Badrinath, another former India batter, suggests that India should include both Kuldeep 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.

The five-match Test series commenced at Headingley, Leeds, from June 20-24, with England winning by five wickets. The series continues with:

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

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