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Kuldeep Yadav is likely to be drafted into India’s playing XI for the crucial fifth Test match against England — a do-or-die encounter that will determine the fate of the series, sources have told CricBlogger. India, currently trailing in a tightly contested five-match series, are expected to make key changes to their bowling unit ahead of the pivotal game.
Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is being seriously considered as a replacement for Shardul Thakur, who has had limited impact with the ball and has been underutilized by captain Shubman Gill. With conditions expected to favor spin as the match progresses, Kuldeep’s ability to extract turn and outfox batters with his flight and variations could be a decisive factor.
In another development, Jasprit Bumrah — who has bowled extensive spells across the first three Tests — is likely to be rested for the fifth match to manage his workload. The Indian team management, along with the medical staff, is keen to preserve Bumrah’s fitness for future assignments. A fresh pacer is expected to be drafted in his place, with Bengal seamer Akash Deep among the frontrunners.
Sources added that Akash Deep, who recently picked up a minor niggle, is recovering well and is likely to be fully fit for the fifth and final Test. His inclusion, which sources confirmed, would add variety and sharpness to India’s pace attack.
While the final playing XI will be decided after assessing pitch conditions and weather in the lead-up to the match, signs point toward India bringing in both Kuldeep and Akash Deep as they seek to level the series to retain the Tendulkar-Anderson trophy to in what promises to be a high-stakes decider.
