As India gears up for the crucial second Test against England at Edgbaston, changes in the playing XI seem certain after the defeat in the series opener. One major talking point is the workload management of Jasprit Bumrah, who may be rested for this match. Besides him, a couple more players could be left out as the team management led by Gautam Gambhir looks for a stronger combination to level the series. Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has made his stance clear about one change. He feels wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav simply must play the next match. Speaking on the Beyond23 Podcast, Clarke said including Kuldeep is an “absolute no-brainer.” India’s bowlers struggled to make an impact at Headingley. While Bumrah stood out with his control and skill, his support cast of Mohammed Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur and Prasidh Krishna could not maintain pressure or pick up wickets consistently. Clarke believes Kuldeep can solve that problem.
“Bowling-wise, I do not want to single out anyone for blame, but India have to play Kuldeep Yadav. He is a genuine wicket-taker and could have made a big difference in the last Test,” Clarke said.Quiz: Who’s that IPL player? Clarke also pointed out that India sometimes focus too much on extending their batting depth, even if it means dropping their frontline spinner. He feels that in English conditions, picking bowlers who can take 20 wickets should be the priority. Echoing similar thoughts, former England batter Nick Knight has also backed Kuldeep’s inclusion. Knight said England’s aggressive batting approach could be tested by Kuldeep’s variations, especially if the Edgbaston pitch offers even a hint of turn. Knight believes Kuldeep’s presence could create match-defining moments if he hits his rhythm. The team announcement for the second Test is awaited, but calls for Kuldeep’s return are only growing louder.
