Gavaskar Calls for Yadav's Inclusion, Questions Middle Order After India's Test Defeat

Following a disappointing five-wicket defeat to England in the Leeds Test, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar is urging strategic changes to the team's composition. His primary recommendation is the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, suggesting he replace Shardul Thakur for the crucial second Test in Birmingham. Gavaskar believes the conditions at Edgbaston will favor wrist spin.

Kuldeep Yadav pictured with teammates. Gavaskar believes his inclusion is crucial for the upcoming Test.

"Whether Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, I think Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team," Gavaskar stated on Tuesday during a broadcast appearance. "I do believe that he should come into the team for Shardul Thakur because the Birmingham pitch will be one where there will be just a little bit of help for the wrist spinner."

Thakur, who was making his first Test appearance in over two years, failed to leave a significant mark on the game. He bowled a mere six overs in the first innings, conceding 38 runs without taking a wicket, and scored only five runs across both innings. Although he briefly ignited the second innings by dismissing Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in consecutive deliveries, Gavaskar felt that his overall performance lacked the conviction needed for a sustained place in the team.

Despite having played only one Test in England back in 2018 at Lord’s, where he went wicketless, Gavaskar is confident that Kuldeep Yadav's unique variations could prove to be a decisive factor in Birmingham.

Concerns Over Middle Order Performance

Gavaskar also voiced his concerns regarding the performance of the middle order, particularly focusing on debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both of whom were dismissed for ducks in the first innings at Headingley. This batting collapse saw India's strong position of 430/3 crumble to 471 all out.

While Gavaskar is hesitant to immediately drop either player, he suggested a potential reshuffle if India falls 0-2 behind in the series.

"If things don't go well in the second Test, maybe Sai (Sudharsan) and Karun (Nair). I don't want to drop them at the moment. 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.

Following their disappointing loss to England at Headingley, the Indian team is determined to level the series when they face England at Edgbaston, with the match commencing on July 2.