Reports had suggested that Kuldeep was likely to feature in the second Test for a couple of key reasons—Ravindra Jadeja’s limited impact in the first game and the expected spin-friendly conditions at Edgbaston, especially with the warm weather forecast in Birmingham.
However, at the toss, captain Shubman Gill revealed that while Kuldeep was strongly considered, the team ultimately opted to strengthen their batting by including Washington Sundar instead. As a result, Kuldeep missed out once again.
Speaking on Sony Sports Network, Gavaskar said,
“I’m a little baffled that Kuldeep wasn’t picked, especially on a pitch like this where there’s supposed to be a bit of turn.”
In addition to Sundar, India brought in Nitish Kumar Reddy and Akash Deep. Jasprit Bumrah was rested, while Shardul Thakur and Sai Sudharsan were dropped from the XI.
“India Needed Wicket-Takers, Not More Batting” – Gavaskar
Gavaskar further pointed out that batting wasn’t India’s issue in the first Test—they posted over 830 runs across both innings. The problem, he argued, was their inability to take 20 England wickets, which ultimately cost them the match.
Why Jasprit Bumrah Might Be Rested for the Edgbaston Test Against England
Historically, Edgbaston hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for India. They’ve never won a Test at the venue in eight attempts since 1967, managing only one draw back in 1986 under Kapil Dev’s leadership.
After England chased down 371 in Leeds with ease, India’s bowling has come under scrutiny. Add to that a misfiring lower order and sloppy fielding, and the pressure is firmly on the visitors. If Ben Stokes’ side wins again, India’s hopes of turning the series around will hang by a thread.
