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As India prepare to bounce back in the second Test of the England series following a heartbreaking loss at Headingley, former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu has weighed in with his preferred bowling combination. The five-wicket defeat—despite a strong batting effort—exposed India’s bowling shortcomings, prompting questions about potential changes in the XI.
Navjot Singh Sidhu picks India’s bowling combination
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Sidhu stressed the importance of bringing variety into the attack and pitched for Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the second Test. He noted that the left-arm wrist-spinner can bring a new dimension to India’s bowling unit. He reckoned that if India decide to rest Jasprit Bumrah due to workload management, Arshdeep Singh should step in. Drawing a parallel with Australia’s strategy.
“For me, it would be Kuldeep along with the three seamers. If you don’t want to play Kuldeep because there is a lot of grass, or if Bumrah doesn’t play, then bring in Arshdeep. He will create a rough for Kuldeep. That’s what Starc does, he makes a rough for Nathan Lyon. That’s why he’s got over 550 wickets,” said Sidhu.
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Sidhu on the ideal batting unit
Highlighting the importance of batting depth, Sidhu asserted that India should stick with seven batters. However, if the team management feels the conditions don’t suit Kuldeep, then they should instead opt for four fast bowlers alongside all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
“India should play seven batters. I kept quiet after India’s playing XI was announced because I knew that was their policy. My preferred playing XI for the first Test had Kuldeep Yadav’s name. If not Kuldeep, then four seamers. You play batters and the all-rounders till seven, but there should be four out-and-out bowlers with Jadeja,” he added.
