Ashwin Backs Kuldeep, Prasidh for Second Test at Edgbaston
The ongoing Test series between India and England has been a closely watched affair, with both teams trading blows in a high-scoring contest. As the series moves to the second Test at Edgbaston, Indian team has been pondering over the selection of its bowling attack. In a recent interview, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out in support of Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the team, highlighting his wicket-taking ability and potential to influence the outcome of the match.
Ashwin, who has been a prominent member of the Indian bowling attack himself, emphasized that Kuldeep’s selection reflects the team’s commitment to picking 20 wickets. In a stern statement, Ashwin said, “Kuldeep’s selection will tell if India are committed to picking 20 wickets or not. He is a wicket-taking bowler and has the ability to win matches. If we are not picking him, it means we are not serious about taking 20 wickets.”
Ashwin’s comments come at a time when the Indian team has been struggling to take wickets on English soil. The visitors have taken only 13 wickets in the first Test, with the English batsmen looking comfortable against the Indian bowlers. Ashwin’s statement may be seen as a veiled criticism of the team’s selection strategy, with many experts questioning the inclusion of spinners like Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin over Kuldeep.
Kuldeep, who has been in and out of the team over the past few years, has been one of the most successful Indian spinners in recent times. He has taken 14 wickets in his last three Tests, including a five-wicket haul against Australia in 2017. His ability to spin the ball both ways and his accuracy make him a valuable asset for the Indian team.
Ashwin also expressed his support for Prasidh Krishna, the young fast bowler who made his Test debut in the first match. Prasidh impressed with his pace and accuracy, taking two wickets in the match. Ashwin praised Prasidh’s talent, saying, “Prasidh has shown a lot of promise in his first Test match. He has pace, and he knows how to bowl. He has a great future ahead of him, and I am excited to see him develop as a bowler.”
The selection of Kuldeep and Prasidh would be a bold move by the Indian team, especially considering the team’s struggles against English batsmen. However, Ashwin’s endorsement of the duo suggests that the team is willing to take risks to strengthen its bowling attack.
In conclusion, Ashwin’s comments have added a new layer of intrigue to the selection debate ahead of the second Test at Edgbaston. The Indian team’s commitment to picking 20 wickets will be put to the test, and the selection of Kuldeep and Prasidh will be crucial in determining the team’s chances of success in the series.
