Kuldeep Yadav in action (Source: @BCCI/X)
In news that could bring relief to many cricket fans around India, Kuldeep Yadav, in all likelihood, is set to play for the country in whites when they take on England in Manchester for the fourth Test of the five-match series, scheduled to begin on July 23. The development came after a shocking injury to Nitish Kumar Reddy, who will no longer be available for the remainder of the series.
As exclusively reported by the Indian Express, India will potentially play three spinners in Manchester, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar – two all-round options – set to pair with specialist left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep. If that happens in reality, that could be a rare moment when India include three spinners in England in their playing XI.
Breakthrough Finally Coming For Kuldeep!
Having been 1-2 down in the series, there have been numerous discussions among experts regarding India’s inclusion of Kuldeep, who has yet to feature in this tour. His last Test match was held in Bengaluru last October, where he took three wickets in the first innings and remained wicketless in the second.
In all, Kuldeep has played 13 Tests so far for India since making his debut in this format in March 2017 in Dharamsala. His numbers are more than just impressive, averaging 22.16 while claiming 56 wickets, speaking volumes. Hence, it is safe to say that Nitish Reddy's unfortunate injury is a blessing in disguise for him.
How Has Kuldeep Yadav Performed Vs England In Tests?
Kuldeep, meanwhile, has played only one Test match in England, back in 2018. There, he remained wicketless, having conceded 44 runs. However, his overall record against England in red-ball cricket is quite impressive, picking up 21 wickets in six matches at an average of 22.28.
In addition, Kuldeep's inclusion in India's playing XI means there is no room for Shardul Thakur, who has been warming the bench since the beginning of the ongoing series.
