Gavaskar Calls for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion Amid Bumrah Fitness Concerns Ahead of Second England Test

Following India's defeat to England in the first Test, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has urged the team management to consider strategic changes to the playing XI for the crucial second Test.

A key recommendation from Gavaskar is the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, a wrist spinner, in place of Shardul Thakur. Gavaskar believes the pitch conditions in Birmingham will favor Kuldeep's bowling style.

"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.

Thakur, who returned to the Test side after more than two years, struggled to make an impact in the first Test, taking just two wickets in the second innings. While he dismissed Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in consecutive deliveries, Gavaskar suggested his overall performance wasn’t compelling enough.

Although Kuldeep Yadav has only played one Test in England back in 2018, Gavaskar feels his variation could be crucial in Birmingham.

Concerns Over Middle Order Performance

Gavaskar also addressed the concerns surrounding the middle order, particularly the performance of debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair. Both batsmen were dismissed for ducks in the first innings, triggering a collapse.

While Gavaskar is not immediately advocating for their removal from the team, he hinted at a potential reshuffle if India faces another defeat.

"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 added.

India will aim to level the series against England when they meet at Edgbaston for the second Test, starting on July 2nd.