New Delhi,sep 19
Decorated spinner Anil Kumble has advocated for left-arm ball tweaker Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the Test fold, who brings along an ‘X-factor’ with him that takes India a step closer to scything 20 wickets. Kuldeep, who firmly believes that rhythm is everything, sat out the entirety of India’s tour of England earlier this year. It wasn’t about his form or the lack of skill set that he offers; the team combination and the urge for batting depth left no room for him.Instead of sulking or brooding, the 30-year-old devised a pattern of training, analysing his game and identifying markers. There were certain moments throughout the 2-2 series draw when fans and former cricketers voiced their opinion about Kuldeep being the missing factor that could have changed the complexion of the game.With Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, offering batting expertise along with rolling their arms to cast spin magic, Kuldeep is often overlooked at the cost of adding more runs to the board. But Kumble sees Kuldeep as a necessary cog in India’s bowling machinery.”I think Kuldeep Yadav should be a part of Test match cricket if you have to take 20 wickets. Yes, there is Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel. But I think Kuldeep’s X-factor is that it’s not easy to pick him. And we have seen that,” Kumble said on The Great Indian Cricket Show.
“I would like to see Kuldeep being the number one spinner as a listed spinner in the playing XI. And then whatever you want to do after that, all-rounders, fast bowlers and then you pick the rest of the players,” Kumble added.
