Kuldeep Yadav was not included in India’s playing XI for the first Test. The Indian spinner has shared that former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen offered him valuable advice to help him prepare for the England Test series. Yadav participated in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) representing Delhi Capitals, where Pietersen worked as a mentor.
The Indian cricket team is now preparing for the second Test against England, scheduled to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Following their loss in the opening match, India is expected to make some changes to the playing XI, particularly in the bowling lineup.
Although the Indian batsmen delivered an impressive performance in the first Test with five centuries across two innings, the bowling attack struggled to contain the English side. Ben Stokes and his teammates successfully chased down the target of 371 runs in the second innings, securing a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Kuldeep Yadav Shares Kevin Pietersen’s Advice Ahead of England Test Series
Kuldeep Yadav, India’s lead spinner for the England series, missed the first Test as the team opted for Ravindra Jadeja as the sole spinner in the playing XI. Jadeja managed just one wicket in that match, increasing the likelihood of Yadav featuring in the second Test to bolster India’s spin attack.
In an interview with The Indian Express, the left-arm spinner revealed that Kevin Pietersen played a key role in helping him prepare mentally for the England series during IPL 2025. Yadav explained that Pietersen advised him to adopt an attacking approach on the field.
“Kuldeep Yadav: Kevin Pietersen was part of our team at Delhi Capitals. He provided me with valuable insights for the England tour, including field placements, pitch conditions, and details about the batsmen. We analyzed their batting lineup thoroughly. He emphasized the mindset needed to succeed in England,” said the 30-year-old.
“Kuldeep Yadav: Pietersen pointed out that spinners often go to England with a defensive mindset, assuming that fast bowlers will take wickets while spinners play a supporting role. He encouraged me to be aggressive. If I get a chance to bowl 15 to 20 overs, my focus should always be on how to dismiss batsmen,” Yadav added.
Meanwhile, Shubman Gill and the Indian team will be aiming to make history by securing their first-ever Test victory at Edgbaston, Birmingham, in the second match. India have lost seven out of eight games at this venue in the past, with one match ending in a draw. England have included Jofra Archer in their squad for the second Test, marking the pacer’s return to Test cricket after a four-year hiatus.
