Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has expressed his surprise over Team India’s decision to leave out wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI for the first ODI against England at Edgbaston. Shastri questioned the management’s preference for additional batting depth, arguing that Kuldeep should be a regular fixture in India’s ODI plans, especially with the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon.

Kuldeep has endured an inconsistent run in India’s 50-over setup over the past year. After playing a key role in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, the left-arm wrist-spinner featured in just one ODI during the Australia tour and struggled for rhythm in the home series against South Africa and New Zealand. He was also overlooked for the recent T20I assignments before being left out of the opening ODI against England.

Speaking on Sony Sports Network, Shastri admitted he was taken aback by the selection call, particularly after England captain Harry Brook suggested at the toss that the Edgbaston surface could assist spin later in the match.

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“I was a bit surprised. Harry Brook himself said he expected the pitch to spin as the game progressed. If that’s the case, then India’s wrist-spinner becomes even more valuable. If anyone can extract turn from such a surface, it’s a quality wrist-spinner like Kuldeep Yadav,” Ravi Shastri said.

The former India coach emphasized that Kuldeep should be given as many ODI opportunities as possible to build rhythm and confidence before the next 50-over World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Shastri also pointed to Kuldeep’s impressive overseas record, particularly in South African conditions where bounce has traditionally suited his style of bowling.

“Adil Rashid has troubled India on several occasions, and Kuldeep has the ability to do the same for us. He needs to play regularly. The more confidence he gains, the more valuable he will become. Since Yuzvendra Chahal is no longer in the picture, Kuldeep should be leading India’s spin attack. How much batting depth do you really need? Batting till No. 9 or No. 10 doesn’t necessarily win you big chases,” he added.

Kuldeep boasts a respectable ODI record in England, claiming 15 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 32.33 while maintaining an economy rate of 5.00. Despite those encouraging numbers, he has featured in only one ODI outside the subcontinent since 2024.

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On the field, India recovered well after England’s solid start. Jasprit Bumrah kept the pressure on with the new ball before the hosts accelerated during the latter half of the powerplay through Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell. However, India’s bowlers staged a remarkable comeback, reducing England from 61 without loss to 92/5. With Joe Root attempting to rebuild the innings, the debate surrounding Kuldeep’s exclusion is likely to continue as India push for a series-opening victory