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At the end of Day 2 of the fourth Test between England and India, the visitors looked deflated after England’s blistering batting display pushed them firmly on the back foot in this crucial, must-win encounter. Despite playing a do-or-die match, India’s bowling attack appeared completely out of rhythm, triggering strong criticism from both fans and selectors. Among the notable voices was Indian Test legend Ravichandran Ashwin, who publicly questioned the team’s selection choices.
Ravichandran Ashwin slams management for not including Kuldeep Yadav in the fourth Test
Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat’, Ashwin criticised the exclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI, criticizing management’s preference of batting depth over wicket-taking ability. He argued that while runs from a No.8 batter can be helpful, it’s the ability to take crucial wickets that truly shifts the momentum in a Test match. Ashwin also questioned the decision to persist with Nitish Kumar Reddy at Lord’s and Birmingham, pointing out that the youngster, while talented, is not yet at the level of like a seasoned all-rounder such as Ben Stokes.
“See, you may get 20–30 extra runs from the No.8 batter, but if that player at No.8 takes 2–3 wickets, then the complexion of the Test match can change. The management decided to play Nitish Kumar Reddy at Lord’s and Birmingham but he is not Ben Stokes yet,” Ashwin said in his YouTube channel.
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Ashwin also points out giving new ball to Anshul Kamboj instead of Mohammed Siraj
Ashwin also pointed out the questionable call of handing the new ball to debutant Anshul Kamboj. England capitalized on the move, stitching together a 166-run opening partnership as Indian bowlers appeared to lack stealth and sharpness with the new ball. Ashwin noted that while Kamboj has a good wrist position and the ability to swing the ball both ways, opting for him over someone like Mohammad Siraj was a tactical decision that backfired.
“Shubman Gill gave the new ball to Anshul Kamboj, and that is highly debatable. I can see why Shubman gave him the new ball, Anshul has good wrist position, swings it both ways. Siraj, on the other hand, is very good with the old ball,” Ashwin concluded.
