Injury Crisis May Open Door for Kuldeep Yadav
Team India could witness significant changes ahead of the fourth Test of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, scheduled to begin on July 23 at Old Trafford, Manchester. The ongoing series has been marred by a series of injuries, and now Kuldeep Yadav is expected to be included in the playing XI due to the latest injury setback to all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy.
“Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion for the Manchester Test seems almost confirmed,” reported the Indian Express.
India, currently trailing in the five-match series, is struggling with a depleted squad as several key players are out with injuries.
Team India Battles Mounting Injuries
Injuries have heavily impacted India’s campaign in this series. It all started with Rishabh Pant‘s finger injury during the Lord’s Test. The situation worsened as Akash Deep (back injury) and Arshdeep Singh (hand injury) were ruled out of the fourth Test. Now, Nitish Kumar Reddy has also been sidelined after a ligament injury sustained during a gym session.
“With several players injured, Team India’s bench strength is being tested to the limit,” noted a senior BCCI official.
This string of injuries could finally pave the way for Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm chinaman bowler, to return to India’s Test lineup in Manchester.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Test Journey So Far
Kuldeep Yadav made his Test debut in March 2017 and has since played 13 Test matches, collecting 56 wickets at an average of 22.16. His last appearance in red-ball cricket came in October 2024.
Interestingly, the only time he played a Test match in England was at Lord’s in 2018, where he failed to pick up a wicket. However, given the current situation and his experience, the team management might look to bring him back into the squad to strengthen the spin department.
As India prepares for the crucial fourth Test, Kuldeep’s return could offer a much-needed balance to the squad.
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