In less than a week, India and England will compete in an exciting five-Test series. The opening match starts in Hyderabad on January 25.
This series will play a big role in the World Test Championship from 2023-25. It’s also an awaited duel between two leading teams. England has dominated Tests for two years, so India faces a serious challenge.
Most likely, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel will be the trio chosen as spinners by the game’s hosts. They’ve included Kuldeep Yadav. He’s their fourth spinner choice. He’s not the top pick to play, but, interestingly, he could really push Axar for a XI spot.
The idea that Axar, who averages 15.98 with the ball and 41.91 with the bat at home, may not be starting might sound absurd. Although the all-rounder offers greater batting depth and metronomic precision, Kuldeep Yadav is no slouch and may be a better choice.
For the India Test series against England, Kuldeep Yadav ought to start ahead of Axar Patel as the third spinner for the following three reasons.
1. Kuldeep Yadav can exploit sporting wickets better than other spinners
Over the past year or so, India’s home Test series has produced a number of standout performances. One of the main winners from this has been Axar, who has seen a noticeable shuffle in the cards that has worked in his favor.
Yet, this strategy might not work well with England, known for their daring hits and resolve not to step back. Setting up square turners might not favor the home team. Instead, their clear skills in both areas could make the difference on fair fields.
Kuldeep Yadav could be a better choice than Axar if the wickets help the Tests last five days, or almost five days. If the frontline hitters are in a position to produce significant runs, then Axar’s hitting might not be required; in such a scenario, a wrist-spinner might be a more formidable danger in the absence of much support from the deck.
2. Kuldeep Yadav’s style is suited for England challenge
In order to win Test matches, England has established a reputation for being a creative side that takes the initiative. A bowler like Kuldeep may test them more and give them more to think about in that sense.
Axar uses lines and lengths without mercy, but that might not always be a good thing. If England’s hitters have a lot of left-handers in their lineup, they may be able to position him up and take advantage of his talents.
Kuldeep Yadav, on the other hand, is difficult to discern from the hand and may spin the ball noticeably in both directions. The left-arm wrist-spinner may be an asset to India because of his ability to manipulate hitters’ batting positions and change pace.
In a more traditional matchup, Axar would be the obvious choice. However, England might be unexpected, therefore India may need to learn from them in order to control the guests.
3. Kuldeep Yadav has excelled in Tests with his consistent form
India’s finger-spinning all-rounders have always been there, which means Kuldeep hasn’t become a constant feature of the Test team. Yet, when he’s had an opportunity, the 29-year-old exhibits his dangerous skills with the red ball.
Collecting 34 wickets in eight Tests, Kuldeep averages a solid 21.55, and he’s managed to secure three instances of getting five wickets in an innings. A 3.43 economy rate is pretty good for a bowler with an offensive style. Specifically in Asia, his average dips to 20.34 in six Tests and he’s nearing 30 dismissals.
Lately, Kuldeep is doing marvelously in various formats. His great rhythm of performance is shining brightly in all situations and against all rivals. He’s now India’s top choice as spinner in ODIs and a preferred selection in T20Is.
These days, Kuldeep Yadav is a different bowler, and considering his current form, choosing him over Axar would be a wise choice.
