Team India Aims for Resurgence at Edgbaston Following Headingley Setback

India's Strategy for the Second Test

After their loss at Headingley, Team India is gearing up to make a strong comeback in the upcoming second Test at Edgbaston. Reports suggest that Jasprit Bumrah might be rested for this match to manage his workload effectively. Bumrah was the standout bowler for India in the first Test, achieving an impressive five-wicket haul in the first innings.

Azharuddin Advocates for Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion

Mohammad Azharuddin bats for Kuldeep Yadav inclusion to reduce dependence on Jasprit Bumrah in 2nd Test#INDvsENG https://t.co/wuQ7LGYq6c

— Express Sports (@IExpressSports) June 29, 2025

In an interview, Azharuddin expressed concern over India's heavy reliance on Bumrah, stating, "The Indian team is too dependent on Bumrah. That’s not ideal because you also need other experienced bowlers. The team must include Kuldeep Yadav at all costs." He believes that adding a wrist spinner like Kuldeep would enhance the balance of India's bowling attack.

Analyzing India's Defeat

India's defeat in the first Test was attributed to their fragile batting performance. Azharuddin remarked, "We lost at Headingley because of our fragile batting. Now the team needs to make the right selections. Our bowling needs to be spot on." He emphasized that the team must not overly depend on Bumrah and should consider including Kuldeep Yadav in the lineup.

Recap of the First Test

In the first Test, India faced a 5-wicket defeat against England. They set a daunting target of 371 runs, but the English team successfully chased it down with five wickets in hand. Ben Duckett was the standout performer, scoring 149 runs, while Joe Root and Zak Crawley contributed with crucial half-centuries. India's bowling was lackluster, failing to contain England's aggressive batsmen.