traiteur-var.com – News Features & Event Commentary

Keshav Maharaj has regained the top spot in the ICC ODI bowling rankings, surpassing Kuldeep Yadav, who now ranks third. Namibia's Bernard Scholtz made a significant leap to fourth, marking a milestone for Associate cricket. Shubman Gill remains the top ODI batter, while India's Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma lead the T20I batting rankings, showcasing India's dominance in both formats.

Mohammad Azharuddin has cautioned India against over-relying on Jasprit Bumrah and suggested including Kuldeep Yadav for the second Test against England. He emphasised the need for a more varied bowling attack to support Bumrah. Azharuddin defended Shubman Gill's captaincy, urging patience and support for the new captain despite the team's batting collapse and defeat in the first Test.

Following India's defeat in the first Test against England, former Australia captain Michael Clarke advocates for Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion in the second Test at Edgbaston. Clarke emphasizes Kuldeep's wicket-taking ability, suggesting India prioritizes bowlers who can secure 20 wickets. Echoing this sentiment, former England batter Nick Knight believes Kuldeep's variations could challenge England's aggressive batting.

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.

Jasprit Bumrah displayed intense focus during practice at Edgbaston, bowling with pace and accuracy alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. Kuldeep Yadav is also working diligently on both his bowling and batting, potentially becoming a key option for the second Test given Birmingham's dry conditions. The team will now take a break before regrouping, with Bumrah's availability remaining uncertain.

Following India's defeat to England, Sunil Gavaskar suggested that spinner Kuldeep Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur for the Birmingham Test, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin. Gavaskar also expressed concerns about the middle order, particularly Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair after their dismissals.