Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has opined that the Indian team management to go with the left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav over Axar Patel in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, scheduled to be commencing on February 9. Shastri pointed out that Kuldeep can spin the ball on day 1, while Axar offers a similar skillset to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
Ravichandran Ashwin is going to be the first name in India’s playing XI for the series opener, with Ravindra Jadeja likely to be the next option. However, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel are competing for the third spinner’s spot.
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During a recent chat with Star Sports, Ravi Shastri said, “As far as the other spinner goes, I would like to see Kuldeep playing straightaway. You have got Ravindra Jadeja, Axar and him are pretty similar while Kuldeep is different. Also, if you lose the toss and want the ball to spin then. if there is anyone who can spin the ball on day one it will be Kuldeep.”
Aditya Sarwate, a left-arm orthodox bowler from the Vidarbha camp, ran through Gujarat’s batting order, as he claimed a 6-wicket hail to give the hosts an unlikely victory in a Ranji Trophy match. And almost a month later, Nagpur will host the Border-Gavaskar series opener, and the emphasis will be on having a potent spin attack to make the most of the spin-friendly conditions.
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Talking about the pitch conditions, Ravi Shastri said, “If the track has not too much to offer, he can come into play. Also, roughs will be created and that will come into play with the Australian and Indian pacers’ bowling. A wrist spinner can bring out that bit further and get it to spin both ways. He can take advantage and is crucial.”
The pitches in India are more conducive to spinners, and slow bowlers are expected to play a significant role in determining the series’ outcome. Both teams have four spinners among them.
