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

Following India's recent defeat to England, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar is urging strategic changes to the team's lineup. He particularly emphasized the inclusion of spinner Kuldeep Yadav for the crucial second Test in Birmingham.

Kuldeep Yadav alongside Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja.

Gavaskar suggests that Kuldeep Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur, as the conditions in Birmingham are likely to favor wrist spin. He stated, "Whether Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, I think Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team... because the Birmingham pitch will be one where there will be just a little bit of help for the wrist spinner."

Thakur's performance in the previous Test was underwhelming. He took no wickets and scored only five runs across both innings. While he did dismiss Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in consecutive deliveries, Gavaskar believes that his overall contribution was not sufficient.

Kuldeep Yadav has only played one Test in England back in 2018 at Lord’s, where he went wicketless. However, Gavaskar remains confident that his variation could be a game-changer in Birmingham.

Gavaskar also addressed concerns regarding the middle order, specifically the performance of debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, who were both dismissed for ducks. While he is not inclined to drop them immediately, he hinted at a possible reshuffle if India faces another defeat.

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

After a disappointing loss in the previous match, India aims to level the series against England at Edgbaston. The match is scheduled to commence on July 2.