Should Kuldeep Yadav be in India team against Pakistan in T20 World Cup?

With the high-octane clash between India and Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 just around the corner, a question has emerged among cricket pundits: Should Kuldeep Yadav be included in India’s playing XI?

Pace over spin in India vs Pakistan?

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes pace will dominate the match, favoring bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh.

He acknowledges his desire to see Kuldeep Yadav play, given his impressive T20I record of 59 wickets at a phenomenal economy rate of 6.75.

However, Chopra predicts Kuldeep might not be selected due to the anticipated pitch conditions.

India strong start and Pakistan setback

India currently sits comfortably in second place in Group A after a convincing eight-wicket victory over Ireland. Pakistan, on the other hand, suffered a surprising defeat against the USA in a Super Over thriller.

Focus on pitch and strategy: India vs Pakistan

With the toss playing a crucial role, the team winning it will likely choose to bowl first, aiming to restrict the opposition during the powerplay.

While the pitch behavior remains uncertain, Aakash Chopra anticipates a pace-heavy encounter.

India bowling options and squad depth

India boasts a strong bowling line-up with the likes of Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Axar Patel, who all performed exceptionally well against Ireland.

The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav would add variety to the attack, but the final decision rests with the team management, who will consider the pitch and their overall strategy.

Selection dilemma for India

With a deep bowling squad at their disposal, the Indian team faces a selection dilemma. Kuldeep Yadav’s potential to create spin magic remains tempting, but the predicted conditions might favor a pace-heavy attack.

The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling contest, and all eyes will be on the team India announces to take on their arch-rivals.

India Squad for T20 World Cup:

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Sanju Samson.