Former England spinner Monty Panesar has strongly advocated for India to include Kuldeep Yadav in the second Test match, suggesting he replace Shardul Thakur. Panesar believes the Edgbaston pitch in Birmingham is likely to favor spin, making Kuldeep an invaluable asset.
Panesar highlighted Kuldeep's potential to be the 'X-factor' India needs. Speaking to PTI, he noted the Edgbaston wicket tends to offer some turn, creating an opportunity for a quality spinner to make a significant impact. He emphasized that Kuldeep possesses a unique quality that could trouble the English batsmen.
Panesar, drawing from his own experience of playing a crucial role in England's 2012 Test series win in India, feels Kuldeep's statistics speak volumes. Kuldeep has an impressive record of 56 wickets in just 13 Tests, averaging 22.16. In contrast, Shardul Thakur has 33 wickets in 12 Tests at a more expensive average of 29.36 and a strike rate of 46.8.
Furthermore, Panesar pointed out Kuldeep's recent form in the IPL, where he demonstrated his ability to bowl effectively even on tracks that don't offer exaggerated turn. Kuldeep's strength lies in his ability to bowl challenging lines that make scoring difficult for batters, a quality that would be beneficial in the upcoming Test.
Panesar questioned Shardul Thakur's effectiveness in the first Test, where he bowled only 16 overs, taking two wickets while conceding 89 runs. Thakur's lack of significant impact with the bat also raised concerns about his value as an all-rounder in English conditions, which are not consistently conducive to seam bowling. Panesar argued that if Shardul isn't going to bowl a substantial number of overs (e.g., 15 in a day), his inclusion in the team becomes less justifiable.
When asked if India should consider playing Kuldeep instead of Ravindra Jadeja, Panesar didn't hesitate, advocating for Kuldeep's inclusion due to his 'X-factor'. He feels Jadeja's bowling is often too quick, which allows batsmen to adjust more easily. Kuldeep, according to Panesar, can become the main attacking option.
Panesar's comments reflect a broader discussion on team composition and the importance of adapting to specific match conditions. With the series poised at a critical juncture, the decision to include Kuldeep Yadav could provide the Indian team with the strategic advantage needed to level the series.
