Gavaskar Calls for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion in Second Test, Questions Thakur's Performance

Sunday - 13/07/2025 03:09

Following India's defeat to England, Sunil Gavaskar suggested that spinner Kuldeep Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur for the Birmingham Test, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin. Gavaskar also expressed concerns about the middle order, particularly Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair after their dismissals.

Following India's recent defeat to England, former captain Sunil Gavaskar is urging the team to make strategic changes to their lineup, specifically suggesting the inclusion of spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Gavaskar believes Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur for the second Test in Birmingham, anticipating conditions that will favor wrist spin.

*Kuldeep Yadav could be key in Birmingham, according to Gavaskar.*

"Whether Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, I think Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team," Gavaskar stated. "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 played his first Test match in over two years, did not perform up to expectations. His contribution with the ball in the first innings was limited, taking no wickets for 38 runs in six overs. He also scored only five runs across both innings. Despite dismissing Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in quick succession during the second innings, Gavaskar felt that Thakur's overall showing lacked conviction.

India Sweat it out at the Nets in Birmingham Ahead of the 2nd Test vs England

While Kuldeep Yadav has only played one Test in England back in 2018 at Lord's, where he was unable to take any wickets, Gavaskar remains confident that his variation could prove crucial in the upcoming match in Birmingham.

Gavaskar's Perspective on Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair

Gavaskar also addressed concerns regarding the middle order, particularly focusing on debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair. Both batsmen were dismissed for ducks in the first innings at Headingley, contributing to a collapse that saw the team fall from a promising 430/3 to 471 all out.

While Gavaskar isn't advocating for their immediate removal from the team, he suggested a potential 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 said.

Following their defeat to England at Headingley, India is determined to level the series when they face England at Edgbaston, beginning on July 2.