Gavaskar Calls for Kuldeep Yadav Inclusion, Questions Bumrah's Fitness Ahead of Second England Test

Gavaskar Advocates for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion in Second Test Against England

Following India's five-wicket defeat to England in the Leeds Test, Sunil Gavaskar is urging immediate changes to the playing XI, highlighting spinner Kuldeep Yadav as a crucial addition. The former India captain suggests Kuldeep should replace Shardul Thakur for the upcoming second Test in Birmingham, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin.

Kuldeep Yadav alongside Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja.

"Whether Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, I think Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team. 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," Gavaskar stated on Tuesday during a broadcast appearance.

Indian team practicing in Birmingham.

Thakur, who played his first Test in over two years, failed to leave a significant mark. He bowled only six overs in the first innings, conceding 38 runs without taking a wicket, and scored just five runs across both innings. Although he briefly ignited hope in the second innings by dismissing Ben Stokes and Harry Brook on consecutive deliveries, Gavaskar felt his overall performance was unconvincing.

Kuldeep Yadav, the leg-spinner, has only played one Test in England, at Lord's in 2018, where he didn't manage to take a wicket. Despite this, Gavaskar believes his variation could prove crucial in Birmingham.

Gavaskar on Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair

Gavaskar also addressed concerns regarding the middle order, specifically debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both of whom were dismissed for ducks in the first innings at Headingley. This triggered a collapse from a strong 430/3 to 471 all out.

While he is not currently in favor of dropping them, Gavaskar hinted at a possible reshuffle if India falls behind 0-2 in the series.

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

Following the painful loss to England at Headingley on Day 5, India will aim to level the series when they face England at Edgbaston, starting on July 2.