As India gears up for the second Test against England at Edgbaston on July 2, fans and experts are buzzing with questions. Will Jasprit Bumrah play? Will there be changes in the playing XI after the defeat in the first Test? And most importantly, will spinner Kuldeep Yadav be included this time?
India lost the first Test at Leeds, where Bumrah bowled 44 overs and took five wickets in the first innings but went wicketless in the second as England chased down 371. Due to workload management and his past injuries, Bumrah is expected to play only three of the five Tests, though it’s still not confirmed which ones.
Read more:Â Ready for a Comeback! Team Begins Prep for 2nd Test vs England at Edgbaston
Kuldeep Yadav, known for his wrist spin, was not included in the first match, which surprised many. Now, with the pitch at Edgbaston expected to help spinners, many believe it’s the right time to bring him in.
Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar said on Star Sports:
“We need to think about how we can bring Kuldeep into the team. Looking at how the England batters played in the first Test, Kuldeep’s wrist spin could trouble them. England has often struggled against wrist spin in the past.”
Another former player, Subramaniam Badrinath, also supported the idea.
“I would replace Shardul Thakur with another bowler and add some variety. I’d bring in both Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav, depending on the conditions,” he said.
The five-match Test series began on June 20 in Leeds, where England won by five wickets. The remaining matches are scheduled as follows:
- 2nd Test: Edgbaston, Birmingham (July 2–6)
- 3rd Test: Lord’s, London (July 10–14)
- 4th Test: Old Trafford, Manchester (July 23–27)
- 5th Test: The Oval, London (July 31–August 4)
This series is part of the World Test Championship and is important for both teams.
Also See:Â India to Stick With Bumrah Rotation Plan, Gambhir Confirms No Change After First Test Loss
