Gavaskar Urges India to Replace Thakur with Yadav for Second Test Against England

Following India's setback against England in the Leeds Test, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar is urging strategic changes to the team's composition, emphasizing the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav. Gavaskar suggests that the spinner should replace Shardul Thakur for the crucial second Test in Birmingham, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin.

Kuldeep Yadav, with Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja (Image by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

"Regardless of Jasprit Bumrah's fitness, Kuldeep Yadav should be in the team. I believe he should substitute Shardul Thakur because the Birmingham pitch is likely to offer some assistance to wrist spinners," Gavaskar stated.

Thakur, who was playing his first Test in over two years, had a minimal impact, bowling six overs for 38 runs without taking a wicket in the first innings. He also scored only five runs across both innings. Although he briefly shone in the second innings by dismissing Ben Stokes and Harry Brook in quick succession, Gavaskar deemed his overall performance insufficient.

Kuldeep Yadav, a leg-spinner, has only played one Test in England, at Lord's in 2018, where he didn't take any wickets. Despite this, Gavaskar believes his variety could be crucial in Birmingham.

Gavaskar's Take on Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair

Gavaskar also addressed concerns regarding the middle order, particularly debutant Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, both of whom were dismissed for ducks in the first innings at Headingley. Their dismissals triggered a collapse from a strong 430/3 to 471 all out.

While he doesn’t currently support dropping them, Gavaskar suggested a possible reshuffle if India falls behind 0-2 in the series.

“If the second Test doesn't go well, maybe Sai (Sudharsan) and Karun (Nair) will be considered. I don't want to drop them immediately. I'd also consider Washington (Sundar) to bolster the batting lineup and add variety to the bowling attack," he added.

Following their painful loss to England at Headingley on Day 5, India aims to level the series when they face England at Edgbaston, starting on July 2.