Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that the unavailability of Ravindra Jadeja for the second Test against England is a significant setback for India. While acknowledging the challenge, Chopra considers Kuldeep Yadav a compelling option as an attacking spinner. Following India’s 28-run loss in the first Test in Hyderabad, the upcoming game in Visakhapatnam on February 2 will be crucial for Rohit Sharma’s team.
Chopra suggests that playing two off-spinners might be questionable if the pitch doesn’t heavily favor turning. Emphasizing the need for a different approach, he advocates for Kuldeep Yadav, whose variations can pose challenges for England, particularly in countering reverse sweeps and switch hits.
“Playing two off-spinners becomes a question if the pitch is not an extreme turner. So you would want to play Kuldeep because you have to do something different to stop the reverse sweeps and switch sweeps. Kuldeep Yadav can do that because they (England) might fall into the trap if they don’t read him from the hand.” said Aakash Chopra .
Highlighting the dilemma caused by Jadeja’s absence, Chopra indicates that the team must decide between strengthening the bowling department with Kuldeep or focusing on batting prowess with Washington Sundar.
“Multiple problems arise because of Jadeja’s absence. Of course, Bharat’s batting has given a little confidence. So he can bat slightly up the order but whom should they play down the order? If you want wickets – Kuldeep Yadav, if you want batting – Washington Sundar.” he added.
While ruling out Saurabh Kumar’s debut in the Visakhapatnam Test, Chopra reasons that the left-arm orthodox spinner wouldn’t replace Kuldeep. He concludes by expressing the challenge India faces due to the absence of several first-team regulars, emphasizing the need to make strategic decisions in team selection.
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