Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble spoke about the possibility of Kuldeep Yadav playing the second Test against England. He said having the wrist will surely help the hosts, but the visitors could also attack him.

India suffered a disappointing defeat in the first Test against England by 28 runs. One of the main factors behind the defeat was the inability of the spinners to take wickets in the second innings. The likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel could not remove Ollie Pope as the batsman hit a big ton.

Ollie Pope with his 196 runs took the game away from India and set them a massive target of 231 runs to chase, which they failed to achieve. The spinners, despite the help of the surface, failed to take the wickets quickly and were heavily criticised.

There have been many calls regarding Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the squad for the second Test. The spinner has been brilliant with the ball for India in the format. Despite performing well, he does not get consistent opportunities. His presence will undoubtedly bring variety to the team as his left arm wrist spin can pose a threat to the batsmen.

Anil Kumble believes the wicket for the second Test between India and England could offer more pace and spin, which Kuldeep Yadav can help with. He believes the hosts need to strengthen their approach and urged the batsmen to be positive. Speaking to Jio Cinema, he explained:

“I’m not sure if a fourth spinner is needed. But if India feels they only need one fast bowler, then having Kuldeep will certainly help. He will have variations, but England will come and do the same thing they did in Hyderabad. The terrain could be decisive and we hope the pace is faster than this.

“This was slow, but it was a good starting point if you tried hard. India certainly needs to buckle up with their approach to playing against spin because I felt the approach of a couple of batsmen was not positive and even the footwork was not what I expected..”

Kuldeep Yadav likely to replace Ravindra Jadeja in Indian XI for second Test

India has suffered a big blow ahead of the second Test against England. Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the second game. He clutched his hamstring after being run over in the second innings of the first game in Hyderabad.

Although the BCCI has named Washington Sundar and Saurabh Kumar as replacements, Kuldeep Yadav is likely to be included in the squad for the second match, which will be played from February 2 in Vizag.

Kuldeep Yadav has picked 34 wickets in just 8 matches he has played. He can be a game-changer for India in the series. England’s batsmen have struggled to counter him every time he has played against them. Also, being skilled with the bat in the order, he could be a perfect replacement for Jadeja in the XI.