Gavaskar Urges India to Replace Thakur with Yadav for Second Test Against England

Wednesday - 25/06/2025 11:01

Following India's defeat to England, Sunil Gavaskar suggested that spinner Kuldeep Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur for the Birmingham Test, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin. Gavaskar also expressed concerns about the middle order, particularly Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair after their dismissals.

Following India's recent defeat to England, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar is urging the team management to make strategic changes to the playing XI for the upcoming second Test. Gavaskar specifically highlighted the potential inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, suggesting he could replace Shardul Thakur.

Kuldeep Yadav alongside Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja

*Kuldeep Yadav, seen with Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja, could be a key addition to the Indian squad.*

Gavaskar believes the conditions at Edgbaston in Birmingham will favor wrist spin, making Kuldeep Yadav a valuable asset. "Whether Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, I think Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team... because the Birmingham pitch will be one where there will be just a little bit of help for the wrist spinner," Gavaskar stated.

Shardul Thakur, who played his first Test in over two years, had a relatively quiet performance in the previous match. He bowled six overs in the first innings, conceding 38 runs without taking a wicket. Although he took two wickets in the second innings, Gavaskar believes Kuldeep's variation could be more impactful in Birmingham.

Kuldeep Yadav has only played one Test in England, back in 2018 at Lord's, where he didn't manage to take a wicket. However, Gavaskar feels that his unique bowling style could be crucial in the upcoming match.

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Gavaskar on Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair

Gavaskar also addressed concerns regarding the middle order, focusing on Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both of whom were dismissed for ducks in the first innings. This collapse led to India going from a comfortable 430/3 to being all out for 471.

While Gavaskar isn’t immediately advocating for their removal from the team, he suggested a potential reshuffle if India falls behind 0-2 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 said.

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