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

Following India's recent defeat to England, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar is urging the team management to consider significant changes to the playing XI for the upcoming second Test in Birmingham. Gavaskar specifically highlighted the potential inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, suggesting he replace Shardul Thakur, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin.

Kuldeep Yadav in discussion with Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja during a break in play.

"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 after a two-year absence, had a minimal impact on the match. Although he managed to dismiss Ben Stokes and Harry Brook with consecutive deliveries in the second innings, Gavaskar felt his performance lacked consistency.

Despite having played only one Test in England back in 2018, where he went wicketless, Gavaskar believes that Kuldeep Yadav's variations could prove crucial in Birmingham.

Gavaskar's Perspective on Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair

Gavaskar also addressed concerns surrounding the middle order, specifically the performance of debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, who both fell for ducks in the first innings at Headingley. This collapse triggered a significant downturn, with the team falling from a strong position of 430/3 to 471 all out.

While not immediately advocating for their removal from the team, Gavaskar hinted at a potential reshuffle should India fall further behind 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 their defeat at Headingley, India is determined to level the series when they face England at Edgbaston.