Here’s what India bowling coach Morne Morkel said about Kuldeep Yadav’s absence from the playing XI in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy so far.
Kuldeep Yadav Left Out as India Prioritize Batting Depth Against England
India’s preference for batting all-rounders in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy has resulted in Kuldeep Yadav warming the bench throughout the series. Before the five-match contest began, many expected the wrist-spinner to play a key role in countering England’s aggressive Bazball approach. However, he has yet to feature in a single match. Bowling coach Morne Morkel has now acknowledged that team selection is focused on strengthening batting depth.
India find themselves in a precarious position in the fourth Test at Manchester, with England piling on over 500 runs and extending their lead to nearly 200 after India posted 358 in the first innings. England’s Ben Stokes and Liam Dawson remained unbeaten on 77 and 21, respectively, while no Indian bowler—including Jasprit Bumrah—managed to stem the flow of runs. Joe Root’s 38th Test century also propelled him to the second-highest run-scorer in Tests.
Addressing the media after Day 3, Morkel finally spoke about Kuldeep Yadav continued exclusion. “It’s about finding the right balance and making the batting line-up longer and stronger,” he explained. “We’ve seen wickets fall in clumps in the past. Kuldeep is world-class and bowling well, and we’re trying to find ways to get him in. But to balance that with batting, it doesn’t always work out.”
‘Need extra batting protection’
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel stressed the importance of adding batting protection against England, citing the hosts’ history of posting huge totals on flat pitches. “At the end of the day, you need runs on the board. Giving that extra batting protection and aiming for 400-plus totals is crucial, especially against England and their brand of cricket,” Morkel said.
He also noted that Kuldeep Yadav’s chances of making the playing XI depend heavily on consistent performances from India’s top six batsmen. “The wicket so far has been dry and has offered some spin, which brings Washington and Jadeja into the game. We are trying to find a way for Kuldeep, but it really comes down to consistent runs from our top six to allow us to include him,” he added.
At stumps on Day 3, England were 544/7, extending their lead to 186 runs in the ongoing Test.
