Now Reading: Kuldeep Yadav may be dropped for 33-year-old spinner after Sri Lanka Test
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Kuldeep Yadav may be dropped for 33-year-old spinner after Sri Lanka Test
Kuldeep Yadav is reportedly set to be dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming Bangladesh series, with selectors favouring a 33-year-old left-arm spinner who has played only 19 first-class games in seven years. The move comes after India's first Test against Sri Lanka, where Kuldeep failed to make an impact.
The 30-year-old wrist-spinner has played 13 Tests for India, taking 34 wickets at an average of 21. The reported replacement, yet to play international cricket, has been impressing in domestic tournaments. Selectors are believed to be looking for more consistent wicket-taking options in home conditions.
If confirmed, this would be another setback for Kuldeep, who has struggled to hold a permanent place in the Test XI despite strong performances. The final squad for the Bangladesh Test series is expected to be announced later this month.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The BCCI selection committee's preference for a left-arm spinner in the Test lineup has historically favoured players like Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja over wrist-spinners. Kuldeep's sporadic selection despite his 2023-2024 Test success raises questions about how the team management values continuity versus horses-for-courses picks. The comparison with a 33-year-old uncapped spinner suggests selectors may prioritise domestic Ranji Trophy workloads over international pedigree. If dropped, Kuldeep could face a prolonged stint in domestic cricket to force a recall, similar to his post-2019 isolation. The next selection meeting for the Bangladesh series will clarify whether this is a temporary tactical call or a permanent shift away from wrist-spin in Tests under the current regime.
Source: zeenews.india.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Methodology and corrections.
