Why Kuldeep Yadav should be included in the Test squad?
23-year-old wrist spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, is definitely the best in business, amongst lefties, when it comes to spin bowling. He has been dominating ODIs and T20Is ever since his debut for India, last year. The in-form bowler was on top of his trades, yesterday, picking a six-for in the first ODI against England. Here's why he needs to play Tests against England.
His form has been supreme
In this tour of UK, Kuldeep started with seven wickets versus Ireland in the two T20Is. He followed that with a five-for in the first T20I match against England. And now in the first ODI at Trent Bridge, he decimated the English batsmen with a career-best performance (6/25). The stats clearly show Kuldeep is enjoying bowling and India should utilize his form in Tests.
Kuldeep getting the maximum from the conditions
Kuldeep is exploiting the conditions in England to the fullest. His performances show that he knows what he is doing and is staying true to those plans. Kuldeep has been turning the ball well especially on pitches where other spinners haven't been able to extract anything. Since ages, spin has been England's biggest problem in Tests and Kuldeep can be introduced to cause discomfort.
Alongside Ashwin, he could run through the opponent
India have always preferred three front-line pacers in overseas conditions when it comes to Test cricket. But this time, Kohli may be tempted to field two spinners with Pandya coming on as the third support pacer. If Kuldeep gets selected, then he could play alongside R Ashwin. With different varieties on offer, India could benefit from a spin show and get the momentum.
Will the selectors go with Kuldeep in Tests?
India already have Ashwin and Jadeja as premier spinners in the Test squad. It will be interesting to see whether the selectors include Kuldeep and leave out a pacer. Red ball cricket is a different spectacle altogether and Kuldeep's inclusion isn't guaranteed.
