'Not playing him has cost India': Kuldeep Yadav’s childhood coach on his snub from first three Tests

Kuldeep Yadav’s childhood coach Kapil Dev Pandey has shared his thoughts on the Indian spinner missing the first three Tests of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England. India trail the five-match series 2-1, with the fourth Test set to begin in Manchester on 23 July.

Pandey said that Kuldeep’s absence has not affected the team too much because the fast bowlers have done well. However, he feels Kuldeep should have been used better at crucial moments and not playing him has cost India heavily.

“Kuldeep not playing doesn’t seem to hold much value in the current context because Team India has been playing well. In the third Test, many expected him to feature, but the fast bowlers did the job and picked up wickets,” Pandey told IANS.

“Kuldeep Yadav is in top form right now. He was lethal during the ODI World Cup and bowled brilliantly throughout the tournament. Not playing him at the right moments has cost India heavily. In recent matches, it’s the batters who have failed, not the bowlers,” he added.

Also Read: Lloyd claims Bumrah makes India lose more: Do the numbers back him? Here are India’s stats with and without pacer

‘He must also be wondering when he’ll get his chance’

Pandey revealed that he recently spoke with Kuldeep and told him to remain ready. He also admitted that while Kuldeep is positive, he must be eager for his opportunity in England. It was widely reported that Kuldeep was set to play the second Test at Edgbaston, but the team chose Washington Sundar instead, as they wanted someone who could contribute with the bat as well.

“I’ve spoken to Kuldeep recently, and I told him to stay fit and be ready to deliver whenever he’s given a chance. All we can do is hope - the final decision lies with the coach and the captain. But there’s no doubt that Kuldeep is currently one of the finest and most senior spinners in the country,” Pandey said.

“Yes, his morale is high, but deep down he must also be wondering when he’ll get his chance - after all, he’s only human. He can be a crucial asset for Team India in Manchester. I spoke to him; he’s focused,” he added.

Also Read: Former Pakistan cricketer slams Ravindra Jadeja for lacking intent during chase in Lord’s Test: ‘No batter tried to make runs’

With two Tests remaining, it remains to be seen if the team management will finally give Kuldeep Yadav his first game of the series in Manchester. The team combination has not been confirmed yet and will likely be revealed on the day of the match.