Kuldeep vs Shardul Who Should Play at Edgbaston Test
1. India’s First Test Loss Sparks Selection Debate
India’s 2025 tour of England started on a disappointing note as they fell short at Leeds in the first Test. England pulled off a historic chase of 371, with Ben Duckett’s sublime 149 leading the way. The defeat has triggered intense discussions around India’s team composition ahead of the second Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham.
Former England left-arm spinner Monty Panesar believes India missed a trick by not playing Kuldeep Yadav and has strongly advocated for his inclusion in the second Test.
2. Panesar’s Take: Why Kuldeep is the Better Fit
Panesar, who was instrumental in England’s 2012 Test series win in India, feels that Kuldeep Yadav brings a much-needed “X-factor” to the Indian bowling unit. Speaking to PTI, he said:
> “At Edgbaston, India could probably play Jadeja and actually go for the X-factor spinner in Kuldeep Yadav. That pitch does turn a little bit. There’s something about him.”
Kuldeep’s unorthodox left-arm wrist-spin offers variety and unpredictability—two traits that could be invaluable on a pitch expected to assist spin.
3. The Numbers Tell the Tale
Statistically, Kuldeep’s Test record stands out. In just 13 matches, he has claimed 56 wickets at an excellent average of 22.16. In contrast, Shardul Thakur has 33 wickets from 12 Tests, with a higher average of 29.36 and a strike rate of 46.8.
Panesar highlighted this disparity to argue that Kuldeep offers more value, especially in conditions where seamers are not getting extravagant movement.
4. Shardul Thakur’s Diminishing Returns
Thakur’s performance in the Leeds Test was underwhelming. He bowled only 16 overs across both innings and returned figures of 2/89. With the bat, he failed to make a significant impact, raising questions about his all-round utility.
“If Shardul is only going to bowl six to eight overs and not give you 15 in a day, there’s no point in playing him,” Panesar stated bluntly.
In a five-day contest, especially in England, the need for bowlers who can sustain long spells is paramount—something Thakur hasn’t consistently delivered.
5. The Jadeja Dilemma: Defensive Stability vs. Attacking Intent
Interestingly, Panesar also touched upon the debate of whether Kuldeep should replace Jadeja instead. His answer was clear:
> “Jadeja bowls too quickly. I think they need to play Kuldeep. He becomes the main attacking option.”
However, Panesar was quick to add that India might shy away from this move because of their preference for a defensive spinner. Jadeja’s economy and control help build pressure, which balances out an attacking spinner like Kuldeep.
6. Why Edgbaston Could Be Ideal for Kuldeep
Unlike the swinging, seaming conditions traditionally associated with English pitches, Edgbaston has offered turn in recent years, especially as the match progresses. The dry nature of the wicket and the possibility of sunny weather can bring spinners into play from Day 3 onwards.
This makes it a fertile ground for Kuldeep’s flight, variation, and drift, especially against English batters who often struggle against high-quality wrist spin.
7. Dual Spin Attack Could Be India’s Answer
Panesar’s most balanced recommendation was that India should field both Jadeja and Kuldeep. This combo could provide the best of both worlds—Jadeja’s control and batting depth, and Kuldeep’s attacking threat.
> “Jadeja can be the defensive guy, and Kuldeep will be the attacking guy.”
With R Ashwin not part of the squad and Axar Patel more of a backup, this combination may be India’s best shot at creating wicket-taking opportunities on a turning pitch.
8. India’s Bowling Needs a Rethink
The defeat at Leeds exposed the limitations of India’s current bowling strategy. Jasprit Bumrah was the standout with a five-for, but the lack of support at the other end allowed England to build partnerships and eventually chase down a mammoth target.
Adding Kuldeep to the mix could shift the dynamic. His ability to take wickets in the middle overs can break partnerships and shift momentum in India’s favour—something sorely missing in the first Test.
9. Kuldeep’s Recent IPL Form Reinforces Confidence
Kuldeep’s performances in IPL 2025 showed that he doesn’t need a turning track to be effective. He consistently bowled tight lines and attacking lengths, often foxing batters with minimal turn and smart pace variations.
This growth in his bowling maturity makes him a more complete package and an asset in Test cricket—not just in the subcontinent, but also abroad.
10. Final Verdict: Time to Unleash the X-Factor
Given the conditions, the opposition, and India’s current needs, Monty Panesar’s call to include Kuldeep Yadav in the XI makes a strong case. With Thakur not providing enough value as a fourth seamer and the pitch at Edgbaston offering more to spinners, this could be the perfect moment for Kuldeep to make his mark in England.
If India are to level the series and fight back, they’ll need more than just individual brilliance—they need to pick a team with the right balance of aggression and control. Kuldeep Yadav could be the game-changer they’re searching for.
