Kuldeep Yadav dropped from second Test due to viral fever confirms coach

Indian Opinion Analysis

The India coaching staff, not the captain or selectors, made the final call on Kuldeep Yadav's availability. Under the BCCI's current medical protocols, a player with an infectious illness is automatically withdrawn until cleared by the team doctor, removing any tactical or form-based debate. The left-arm wrist-spinner is India's primary attacking option in overseas conditions, with 53 wickets in 14 Tests. His absence in this dead-rubber fixture, with the series already decided, allows the management to test bench options without long-term risk. The team's next Test assignment after this series, an away tour of England in July 2026, will require Kuldeep to be match-fit and in rhythm. The BCCI selection committee reviews fitness reports after each series. How Kuldeep responds in the next domestic season with Northamptonshire or at the NCA will determine his England tour selection. The squad for the third Test in Colombo on 2 May will be a first indicator of his recovery.