Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has questioned captain Shubman Gill’s decision to use Kuldeep Yadav only sparingly during India’s first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
India won the match by 165 runs, but Kaif believes Kuldeep, one of India’s most talented wrist-spinners, should have been given more opportunities to bowl.
The first Test was played on a surface that offered help to spin bowlers. Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja made good use of the conditions and played important roles with the ball.
Suthar finished the match with 10 wickets, while Jadeja also picked up several key wickets. However, Kuldeep was given much less bowling time compared with the other spinners.
Suthar and Jadeja bowled around 44 overs combined, while Kuldeep bowled only about 25 overs across the two innings. He managed to take just one wicket.
Kaif Wants Longer Spells for Kuldeep
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif said that Kuldeep needs longer spells to find his rhythm and make an impact.
According to Kaif, wrist-spinners often need time to settle into a spell. If they are brought on for short periods and then removed quickly, it can be difficult for them to make adjustments and correct mistakes.
Kaif described Kuldeep as a “unique talent” and said India should show more confidence in him.
He also supported former India coach Ravi Shastri’s view that Kuldeep is one of India’s best spin options in overseas conditions.
Kuldeep can be particularly useful on pitches that are flat and do not offer much natural turn. His wrist-spin can create different angles and variations, giving him the ability to trouble batters even when the pitch is not strongly favouring spinners.
Competition for the Second Test
India will now prepare for the second Test in Colombo, which begins on August 23.
Kaif believes India could make changes to the bowling combination. He suggested that the team could consider giving a Test debut to Saransh Jain, an off-spinner.
The presence of several left-handed batters in the Sri Lankan team could make an off-spinner an attractive option for India.
However, such a change could create more competition for Kuldeep. With Suthar performing strongly in the first Test, India will have several spin options to choose from.
This could leave Kuldeep fighting for his place in the playing XI despite his experience and previous performances.
Kuldeep’s Test Record
Kuldeep made his Test debut in 2018 and has played 19 Tests for India.
During his Test career, he has taken 80 wickets at an average of 23.36, showing that he can be an effective bowler in the longest format.
However, his numbers this year have been less impressive. He has taken only four wickets in two Tests, with an average of more than 41.
Kaif’s comments have therefore raised an important question about how India should use Kuldeep. The spinner’s supporters believe he needs consistent opportunities and longer spells to regain confidence and rhythm.
The second Test in Colombo will provide India with another chance to decide how best to use its spin options. With Suthar performing well and other bowlers competing for places, the team management faces an important selection decision.
For Kuldeep, the match could be an opportunity to prove his value if he is included in the playing XI and given a larger role.
India will hope to continue its strong performance in the series, while Sri Lanka will look to respond after losing the opening Test.