Since the first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, there has been much debate and speculation about Kuldeep Yadav’s likely presence in the playing XI. However, the left-arm wrist spinner has yet to make his first appearance on the tour, having watched the first three Tests from the sidelines.
The Indian team management has decided to go in with more batting resources, which is why they have chosen spin-bowling all-rounders such as Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Jadeja and Sundar have both performed admirably in the series thus far. However, many experts have advised the team management to show more courage and bring Kuldeep into the side, as this would increase the possibilities of picking up 20 wickets in a Test match.
Former England bowler Steve Harmison has stated that he will neither drop Jadeja or Sundar to make room for Kuldeep in the starting XI for the fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.
“You cannot drop Jadeja or Sundar. Can you play with three spinners? That will be a significant ask. As much as I believe it is appropriate to play Kuldeep, I am not sure how you will get him in. If you drop a batter, like they did in the first Test match, everyone moves up one. It’ll be a major call. Is Washington Sundar missing out? “I would not like to make that call.” Harmison,
Harmison opined that the surface at Old Trafford could be favourable for the spinners, especially as the match progresses.
“I think it would. It is not going to bounce for Kuldeep, but I think it will spin, no doubt it will, as the Test match goes on. We have had three Test matches go into the fifth day. I think India have had to have a serious consideration because at this moment their side is balanced,” he added.
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