Kuldeep Yadav’s absence from India’s playing XI in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has sparked intense debate among fans and cricket experts, especially after the team’s crushing defeat to South Africa in the Super 8 stage. The wrist-spinner featured in the high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash in Colombo on February 22, where he bowled a controlled spell and picked up one wicket in his three overs. Despite that decent outing and a strong track record in T20 internationals, Kuldeep has not been included in India’s XI for the following matches.
The decision drew sharp criticism after India slumped to a 76-run defeat in Ahmedabad during their opening Super 8 encounter. With the bowling attack struggling to make breakthroughs at crucial stages, several former players and analysts questioned why a proven wicket-taking option like Kuldeep was left on the bench.
Amid the growing scrutiny, former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad made a sensational claim regarding the spinner’s omission. Speaking on the Pakistani show Haarna Mana Hai, Shehzad suggested that Kuldeep’s absence might be linked to an alleged disagreement with India captain Suryakumar Yadav after the Pakistan match.
“Apka match winner hai Kuldeep Yadav. Ab mujhe nahi pata ki usko kis tareh bahar nikala (Kuldeep is a match-winner for you. I don’t know how they left him out of XI),” Ahmed Shehzad said. “There was an incident after the Pakistan game where he had an argument with Suryakumar Yadav and Surya even pushed him.”
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“People are now saying that perhaps Kuldeep Yadav was dropped because of a disciplinary issue or a problem with Suryakumar Yadav. Otherwise, he would not have been left out. Kuldeep Yadav brings variation and is a match-winner.”
Following the India–Pakistan encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium, a short clip circulated widely on social media showing Suryakumar appearing animated during a discussion with the spinner. Although the Indian team management has not commented on the incident, the footage added fuel to speculation around Kuldeep’s absence.
Shehzad also criticised India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir, claiming the former opener’s leadership style could be affecting the team environment.
“When you enter any field, complete focus is needed. Gambhir entered politics, and obviously his mindset changed,” Ahmed Shehzad said. “He was not very successful in politics, but it seems he has brought that same politics into the team environment. All this politics from Gautam Gambhir has damaged the image of the Indian team.”
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Kuldeep, who has claimed 95 wickets in 54 T20Is, remains one of India’s most effective spin options. With a must-win Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe in Chennai approaching, his return to the playing XI could be a crucial decision for the team management.
