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

Following India's recent defeat to England, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has urged the team management to consider significant changes to the playing XI for the upcoming second Test. Gavaskar specifically highlighted the potential inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, suggesting he could replace Shardul Thakur in the lineup.

Kuldeep Yadav, alongside Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja, could be a key asset for India in the second Test.

Gavaskar believes the conditions at Edgbaston in Birmingham will favor wrist spin, making Kuldeep a valuable asset. "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," Gavaskar stated during a broadcast.

Thakur, who was playing his first Test in over two years, had a lackluster performance in the previous match. He bowled only six overs in the first innings, conceding 38 runs without taking a wicket. While he did manage to dismiss Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in the second innings, Gavaskar felt his overall contribution wasn't substantial enough.

Despite Kuldeep Yadav's previous experience in England, where he went wicketless at Lord's in 2018, Gavaskar remains confident in his ability to make an impact. He believes Yadav's variation could be crucial in exploiting the conditions at Edgbaston.

Gavaskar's Perspective on Middle-Order Performance

Gavaskar also addressed concerns surrounding the middle order, specifically mentioning debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair. Both batsmen were dismissed for ducks in the first innings, contributing to a batting collapse after India had reached a promising 430/3.

While Gavaskar is not currently advocating for their immediate removal from the team, he hinted at a potential reshuffle if India loses the second Test and goes down 0-2 in the series. "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," he explained.

India will be aiming to level the series against England at Edgbaston, with the match commencing on July 2nd.