Now Reading: Kuldeep Yadav eyes India’s spin leader role in Sri Lanka Tests
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Kuldeep Yadav eyes India’s spin leader role in Sri Lanka Tests
Kuldeep Yadav has a crucial opportunity to cement his place as India's next spin leader during the two-Test series in Sri Lanka. With Ravindra Jadeja approaching the twilight of his career, India…
The Story in Brief
Kuldeep Yadav has a crucial opportunity to cement his place as India's next spin leader during the two-Test series in Sri Lanka. With Ravindra Jadeja approaching the twilight of his career, India are looking for the next generation of spinners. Former spinner Murali Kartik said Kuldeep has a chance to play a bigger role, noting his match-winning ability. Under Rohit Sharma, Kuldeep took 116 wickets in 62 matches at an average of 20.92, while under Virat Kohli he claimed 140 wickets in 75 matches at an average of 25.34. His overall Test record stands at 79 wickets in 18 matches at an average of 22.35.
The series also carries weight for India's World Test Championship campaign, where they currently sit fifth with a points percentage of 48.15. Kartik stressed the importance of improving recent Test results. Alongside Kuldeep, Manav Suthar is another spin option after taking seven wickets on his Test debut against Afghanistan. Kuldeep's greater experience makes him a strong candidate to lead the spin attack as India undergo a transition.
The Indian Opinion
The narrative that Kuldeep Yadav has been unfairly sidelined ignores his patchy record under different captains. Across formats, his numbers are excellent, but Test cricket demands consistency of selection. The focus on 'leader of the attack' often overlooks that spin bowling in India is a collective effort, with Jadeja, Ashwin, and now Suthar in the mix. A more pointed test: will the team management back Kuldeep for a full series, or keep him as a rotational option? His performances in Sri Lanka will reveal whether he is seen as the long-term successor or just an experienced stopgap.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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