India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has said that the aim of excluding Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI for the four-Test matches is to ensure balance in the team and by including him in the squad, India will have to ensure that their batting lineup remains deep and is ready to face England.
India’s bowling looked helpless
India’s bowling looked helpless in the fourth Test as England scored 544 runs in 135 overs at a run rate of 4.03. Mohammed Siraj looked tired after playing the first three Tests. Jasprit Bumrah suffered an ankle injury but returned to the field shortly after. Debutant Anshul Kamboj looked lifeless as his bowling showed that he needs more time to adjust to the big stage.
Speaking to the media after the end of the day’s play, Morkel said, “I think when he is included in the team, it is important to see how we can create balance and how we can make the batting order a little longer and stronger.”
We are trying our best to find ways to give him a chance: Morkel
“We have seen before that we have lost a lot of wickets. Kuldeep is world class and is bowling well at the moment, so we are trying our best to find ways to give him a chance,” Morkel added.
Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar took two wickets each on the third day of the fourth Test, and it looked like Kuldeep Yadav could have done wonders on this surface. Many experts and fans are questioning why the veteran wrist-spinner has been ignored in the series so far.
On managing the workload, Morkel said “It is a real test. We often play three-Test series, and this is the first time in a long time that we have played a five-match series. It should not be overlooked, but in terms of conditioning, getting your players ready and preparing them for a Test series right after the IPL, sometimes becomes a problem,”.
FAQ
Who is Morkel in this context?
Morne Morkel, the former South African pacer, is currently serving as part of India’s coaching staff for the 2025 England vs India series.
What did Morkel say about Kuldeep Yadav?
Morkel mentioned that the team management is trying to give Kuldeep Yadav an opportunity to play during the series.
Why is Kuldeep Yadav not in the regular playing XI?
Kuldeep has faced tough competition from other spinners and team combinations. Selection depends on pitch conditions and match strategy.
Is Kuldeep expected to play in the upcoming matches?
Yes, Morkel’s statement suggests that Kuldeep might be included in the playing XI soon, possibly in the next Test or ODI.