Ravichandra Ashwin, the former Indian all-rounder, has encouraged the team to include Kuldeep Yadav in the crucial fourth Test against England in Manchester, which starts Wednesday. Kuldeep hasn’t played in the series yet, and India is behind 1-2 with two games remaining.
Before the match, Ashwin shared an interesting idea with head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill. He suggested that Kuldeep could be tried as a fourth seamer.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin mentioned that it’s key to consider Kuldeep’s mindset. Despite Ashwin’s retirement, Kuldeep hasn’t had any playtime.
Ashwin said, The fourth fast bowler’s role… use Kuldeep for that. I know number 9 won’t be batting high up. But please, you can try this. You’re down 2-1 in the series. Let’s take a chance. When we play cards, we play our best hand, right? So, with what you have, make the best move. Kuldeep Yadav is a valuable asset. Please, give him an opportunity. The problem is we keep saying he should play.
He added, I really hope Kuldeep is in a good mental state. Kuldeep probably thought, ‘Ashwin is retired. My chance is here.’ Now is Kuldeep Yadav’s time to enjoy, right? It’s possible that in those three games, the team talked with him about his role.
Ashwin suggested that even if Kuldeep plays at Old Trafford, fans shouldn’t expect him to take five wickets right away.
Don’t expect him to get 5 wickets on day one. That probably won’t happen. Look at Kuldeep Yadav as the fourth seamer. Use him in that role. But he could be helpful in the second innings and against England’s tail-enders. Kuldeep can be a handful even on day one. Kuldeep can also play the fourth seamer role. He can dismiss the tail-enders. He can also get one or two top-order wickets, Ashwin noted.
Ashwin also mentioned that the team could test Washington Sundar at No. 3 to include all their all-rounders and have room for Kuldeep.
If you believe in Washington Sundar’s batting, send him in at No. 3 and play Kuldeep Yadav, Ashwin stated.