Gavaskar Calls for Kuldeep Yadav Inclusion in Second Test Amid Bumrah Fitness Concerns

Gavaskar Suggests Key Changes for India After Leeds Defeat

Following India's defeat to England in the Leeds Test, former captain Sunil Gavaskar has urged the team management to consider strategic changes to the playing XI for the upcoming second Test in Birmingham. The most prominent suggestion is the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in place of Shardul Thakur.

Gavaskar, speaking on broadcast, emphasized the potential for wrist spin to be effective on the Birmingham pitch. "Whether Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, I think Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team. I do believe that he should come into the team for Shardul Thakur because the Birmingham pitch will be one where there will be just a little bit of help for the wrist spinner," Gavaskar stated.

Thakur, who was playing his first Test in over two years, had a limited impact on the game. While he did take two wickets in the second innings, Gavaskar felt his overall contribution wasn't sufficient.

While Kuldeep Yadav's previous Test experience in England was wicketless, Gavaskar believes his variety could prove crucial in the upcoming match.

Gavaskar also addressed concerns about the performance of the middle order, particularly debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both dismissed for ducks in the first innings at Headingley. This collapse significantly impacted India's first innings total.

While not immediately advocating for their removal, Gavaskar suggested potential changes if India faces another setback and goes 0-2 down in the series. "If things don't go well in the second Test, maybe Sai (Sudharsan) and Karun (Nair). I don't want to drop them at the moment. Then I'd also look at Washington (Sundar), so that it really gives you a more solid batting, and also get a little more variety as far the bowling is concerned," he commented.

India will be aiming to level the series against England at Edgbaston, with the match commencing on July 2.