Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin urged the Indian team to consider playing the spinner of the left shoulder of Kuldeep Yadav in the upcoming test series against England, which begins on June 20.
This proposal comes as a surprise, given that Indian teams traditionally avoided the position of more than one specialized spinner in English conditions. Usually, the combination leaned towards three to four fast pitch -offs supported by a lone spinner for spacing, which tends to prefer seam and rocking.
However, Ashwin claimed that India needed his best bowling attack to win matches – and in his opinion, Kuldeep is a guaranteed starter.
“When Batsmen pass, the best bowling attack will win you.
During the previous Indian tour of England in 2021, only one Spinner, Ravindra Jadeja played, while Ashwin was omitted despite his experience. This time there could be a more flexible combination of the team on the cards – with Jadeja, probably a battery of the higher ranking and the presence of versatile, such as Nitish Reddy or Shardul Thakur, will potentially relax space for Kuldeep.
Kuldeep was a consistent goalkeeper despite limited opportunities in tests. It is remarkable that the only time in the test was in 2018 – also against England.
Ashwin was positive about the current Indian bowling unit and their chances in English conditions. They believe they are able to succeed anywhere.
“Jasprit Bumrah should be No. 1, next to Ravindra Jadeja, which offers control and can bat in the first five or six.
Indian preparations are already underway and the first day of the game is completed. Kl Rahul and SHUBMAN GILL impressed the 1950s, while Shardul Thakur had a decent trip with the ball.
The key decision is now waiting for Gill – leading the test party for the first time – because he and the team leadership weighs his bowling options in front of the opener.
Published:
Amar Pancker
Published on:
June 15, 2025
