Team India's preparations for the Asia Cup 2025 are underway, with the squad assembling in Dubai for practice sessions ahead of their opening match against UAE on September 10. As the team management finalizes the playing XI, the debate around the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav has resurfaced, with voices from the cricketing fraternity emphasizing the value of his unique bowling style.
Former India cricketer Madan Lal has publicly supported Kuldeep's inclusion in the team, citing his "unique left-arm wrist spin" as a difficult weapon for opposing batsmen to counter in the T20 format. Lal believes that the team should aim for a combination of two spinners and three pace bowlers, particularly in Dubai conditions. He highlighted that the final decision would depend on the wicket conditions and team combination.
Kuldeep Yadav's recent form and statistics further strengthen the case for his inclusion. While he didn't get an opportunity in the recently concluded Test series against England, he has been a consistent performer in T20Is. He has 69 wickets in 40 T20Is, with a bowling average of 14.07 and best figures of 5/17. In the IPL 2025, playing for Delhi Capitals, Kuldeep took 15 wickets in 14 matches with an economy rate of 7.08 and an average of 24.07. He is currently ranked as the No. 3 bowler in the world.
The Indian squad already includes Axar Patel as an all-rounder and Varun Chakaravarthy as another spin option, creating competition for Kuldeep's place in the XI. However, Kuldeep's distinct wrist-spin provides a different dimension to the bowling attack compared to the finger spin of Axar and the variations of Chakaravarthy. His ability to turn the ball both ways and deceive the batsmen with his change of pace makes him a valuable asset, especially in the middle overs where controlling the run flow is crucial.
The Asia Cup 2025 presents a significant opportunity for Team India to fine-tune their squad and strategies ahead of future major tournaments. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from T20Is after the World Cup last year, this is the first major multi-team assignment in this format for the new team. Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, with Shubman Gill as vice-captain, the team aims to defend their Asia Cup title and extend their record as the most successful team in the tournament. India is placed in Group A along with Pakistan, Oman, and the UAE. India will begin their campaign on September 10 against the UAE in Dubai.
The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav would not only bolster the spin department but also provide variety and flexibility to the bowling attack. As Madan Lal and other voices suggest, his unique bowling style could be a key factor in India's quest for another Asia Cup triumph. The team management will need to carefully assess the conditions and opposition to make the best decision for the team's balance and success.
