Former India spinner and head coach Anil Kumble has emphasized that Kuldeep Yadav deserves a central role in India’s Test side, citing the left-arm wrist spinner’s recent performances as proof of his red-ball credentials. Kuldeep has been in scintillating form during the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, picking up eight wickets in three matches and sitting second on the tournament’s wicket-taking charts.
His impressive displays have reignited discussions about his place in India’s Test setup, especially after he missed all five matches of India’s tour to England earlier this year, despite being in the squad.
That series ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving observers to question whether India missed a genuine attacking spinner on helpful surfaces. Speaking on The Great Indian Cricket Show, Kumble stressed the value of Kuldeep’s wicket-taking ability in Tests.
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“I think Kuldeep Yadav should be a part of Test match cricket if you have to take 20 wickets. Yes, there is Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel. But Kuldeep’s X-factor is that it’s not easy to pick him. And we have seen that,” Anil Kumble said.
He further added, “I would like to see Kuldeep being the number one spinner as a listed spinner in the playing XI. And then whatever you want to do after that, all-rounders, fast bowlers and then you pick the rest of the players.”
Under Shubman Gill’s captaincy in England, India relied on Jadeja and Sundar for balance, but the absence of Kuldeep raised concerns about a lack of attacking options. Kumble’s endorsement reinforces the view that Kuldeep’s variations, especially his ability to trouble set batters, are vital for India’s red-ball plans.
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India’s next Test series is at home against the West Indies, followed by a white-ball series with Australia. This home assignment presents Kuldeep with an ideal opportunity to reassert himself in the longest format. With Jadeja providing control and Kuldeep delivering attacking wrist spin, India could finally have the combination needed to pick up 20 wickets and dominate Tests consistently.
