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India are under pressure heading into the second Test of the series against England after suffering a defeat in the opener at Headingley. Ahead of the next battle, all eyes are on how the visitors will tweak their lineup for the next match, scheduled to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston in Birmingham. One of the major talking points revolves around India’s spin combination—will they continue with Ravindra Jadeja, or hand a chance to Kuldeep Yadav?
The loss in the first Test has forced India into a spot where they must reassess their approach, especially in the bowling department. While conditions in England don’t typically favour spin, the right-arm spinner can still play a decisive role. With Edgbaston offering more bounce and pace than Headingley, India will be keen to field a side that maximizes their chances of levelling the series.
Brad Haddin questions Ravindra Jadeja’s effectiveness away from home
Former Australian cricketer Brad Haddin has voiced strong opinions regarding India’s current spin setup. On the Willow Talk podcast, Haddin questioned whether Jadeja should continue to feature in the XI, especially when playing in conditions like those in England.
Haddin pointed to Jadeja’s overseas stats—1304 runs and 81 wickets in 30 Tests—as not being sharp enough to warrant a guaranteed place in the side. He emphasised that Jadeja’s ability to hold one end is useful but may not be enough when wickets are needed to win matches.
“Are we seeing the decline of Ravindra Jadeja? I mean, yes, he is effective in Indian conditions and how hard it is to play left-arm spin in India, but I don’t think he is the best option to have in the team spin-wise. I don’t think Jadeja can be effective. Yes, he is a good all-rounder, and he could play as a second spinner, hold at the other end,” said Haddin.
Also READ: ENG vs IND: Stuart Broad names two bold changes India should consider for the Edgbaston Test
Haddin explains why Kuldeep Yadav should get the nod
Haddin emphasized the need for India to adopt a more aggressive mindset in their bowling selections, especially in overseas conditions. He suggested that Kuldeep, with his attacking style and wicket-taking ability, would be a better fit than a defensive option like Jadeja. Haddin pointed out that India already have bowlers like Mohammed Siraj who can hold one end and maintain control, so it makes sense to include a more threatening spinner like Kuldeep. He also mentioned that if a player like Nitish Reddy is included in the playing XI, it gives India the flexibility to drop Jadeja and go with a more attacking spin option, which he believes is essential when playing away from home.
“I would look at Kuldeep. Someone who is an attacking spinner, who can get wickets. You’ve got a couple of hold-in bowlers. Siraj can play that role, but I think they need to be a bit more bold in their selection of bowlers. If Reddy plays, then you don’t have to play Jadeja and bring the attacking spin option. I think that’s one thing they’ve got to look at, especially away from home,” added Haddin.
