Pressure Mounts on India to Unleash Kuldeep Yadav's Spin in Second Test vs. England

Friday - 18/07/2025 05:06

Following their defeat in the first Test, India is contemplating changes for the second Test against England at Edgbaston. Jasprit Bumrah's participation is uncertain due to workload management. Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion is strongly considered, given England's struggles against wrist spin.

India vs. England: Calls Grow for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion in Second Test

Following their defeat in the first Test, the Indian cricket team faces critical decisions as they prepare for the second Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham, starting July 2nd. The series currently stands at 1-0 in favor of England.

Several questions loom: Will Jasprit Bumrah play? What changes will India make to their lineup? And crucially, will Kuldeep Yadav's spin be unleashed?

Kuldeep Yadav could be key for India in the second Test.

Team management has indicated that Bumrah, due to workload concerns and past injuries, is slated to participate in only three of the five Tests. The specific matches remain undisclosed.

In the first Test at Leeds, Bumrah showcased his prowess with a five-wicket haul in the first innings but remained wicketless in the second, having bowled nearly 44 overs as England successfully chased down a target of 371.

Arshdeep Singh picks Morne Morkel’s brain at Edgbaston

The exclusion of **Kuldeep Yadav**, a left-arm wrist spinner, from the first Test sparked debate. Now, his inclusion in the second Test is gaining momentum, particularly given the expected spin-friendly conditions at Edgbaston.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar emphasized the potential impact of Yadav's bowling style. "The team will have to give some thought to how we can bring Kuldeep Yadav into the XI, because judging by the approach we saw from the England batters in the first Test, Kuldeep — who bowls wrist spin — could be effective. Historically, England’s batters haven’t played wrist spin particularly well. So that is definitely something worth considering,” Bangar stated on Star Sports.

Subramaniam Badrinath, another former Indian batter, suggested a more comprehensive overhaul, advocating for the inclusion of both Kuldeep Yadav and pacer Arshdeep Singh.

"I think one change could be replacing Shardul — I’d definitely look to include a bowler. And maybe instead of Prasidh Krishna, I’d look to add some variety. So probably, my changes would be Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav coming into the XI. But then again, the final XI will depend on the conditions," Badrinath added.

The five-match Test series, a part of the World Test Championship, continues with the following schedule: