India's Strategy for Kuldeep Yadav in Final Test of Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy

As India prepares for the final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, the decision regarding spinner Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion remains uncertain. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak emphasized that the captain and head coach will make the final call. Despite Yadav's impressive track record, his participation is still up in the air. This article delves into the team's dynamics and Yadav's performance history, providing insights into India's strategy as they aim to level the series against England. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this gripping cricket showdown.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2025, 02:06 IST

Decision on Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion

In a recent briefing regarding the potential inclusion of spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the playing eleven for the fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak stated that the final decision will rest with captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir.

As the series stands, India is trailing 1-2 after four Tests, and both teams are set to clash in London for the concluding match of the five-match series.

Kotak mentioned, "Our captain and head coach will convene to discuss and make a decision. This matter hasn't been finalized yet. Even if a decision is reached, it's not my role to disclose it. However, it will be determined tomorrow," he informed the media.

He commended Yadav for his commitment and preparation but noted that it is challenging to predict whether he will actually play based on the current training.

"Considering the preparation, it's difficult to assert that this player will take the field. Kuldeep is an exceptional talent who diligently hones his skills. You will always see him engaged in batting and fielding, so he is not doing anything out of the ordinary today," Kotak added.

Yadav has yet to participate in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Throughout his Test career, he has played 13 matches, taking 56 wickets with an impressive average of 22.16 and an economy rate of 3.55, including four five-wicket hauls.

His experience in England is limited to just one Test, which occurred in 2018, where he did not take any wickets.

In the series opener at Headingley and the third Test at Lord's, India struggled against the English bowlers, which contributed to their setbacks.

India managed to secure a draw at Old Trafford in Manchester, keeping the pressure on England as the intense series approaches its finale.

The Indian squad includes: Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (vc, wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudarshan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, and Kuldeep Yadav.