It looks like Kuldeep Yadav, a left-arm wrist spinner, may have to wait a long time to get back into India’s starting XI. Kuldeep didn’t get to play in any of the five Tests against England recently, so it’s unlikely that he’ll be in India’s starting XI for their Asia Cup 2025 opener against the UAE. This time, he isn’t on the team because of the surprise conditions of the Dubai International Stadium pitch, not because of team balance.
Morne Morkel, India’s bowling coach, said that the pitch has a “greenish tinge” and that it should help seamers more than the slow, dry surface that was used during the Champions Trophy earlier this year. Kuldeep was a key player in India’s win in that tournament, especially in the final against New Zealand, where he played quite well. He got important wickets, like Kane Williamson’s, and helped keep New Zealand’s score down to a manageable level.
India is likely to stop using its old tactic of playing numerous specialist spinners because of the changing ground conditions. Instead, the club will probably only use one specialist spinner, with all-rounders taking up the other spots. Varun Chakaravarthy, who has a lot of experience in the T20 format, is likely to be the main spinner. All-rounder Axar Patel will probably take care of the second spinner’s duties.
Morne Morkel praised Kuldeep’s professionalism, saying that he has stayed upbeat even if he hasn’t played much. Morkel said, “He knows what to do to get himself ready for T20 cricket and white-ball cricket.” He also said that the squad is “covering all bases” and would make a final decision on match day.
Gautam Gambhir, the coach of India’s cricket team, seems to be putting a lot of emphasis on the team’s batting depth. Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel are both all-rounders who are set to be in the XI. Shivam Dube, an all-rounder who can bowl seam, is likely to fill the place of the now-retired Ravindra Jadeja in the T20 format. Dube not only strengthens the middle-order batting, but he also gives the team a good alternative for bowling.
It looks like the last choice for the number 7 spot is between Shivam Dube and wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma, who seems to have the upper hand over Sanju Samson. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh will be in charge of the speed assault. There is a chance of a third seamer, but it is not likely for the first match.