After being ignored for the entire ODI series against England, Kuldeep Yadav is again being criticized for his continued absence from India’s playing XI. Former Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has raised questions on the team management’s trust in him. Despite Jasprit Bumrah not being available, the spinner could not find a place in the team even in the third ODI played at Lord’s on Sunday. Due to his not being included in the team, the debate regarding his role under head coach Gautam Gambhir has intensified.

Since Gambhir took charge on July 9, 2024, India has played 104 international matches in different formats, but Kuldeep has played only 38 matches. Seeing the lack of opportunities, Ashwin is convinced that this spinner is no longer a part of the team’s plans. While talking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said that Kuldeep should stop waiting for those opportunities for which there is no hope of getting. Kuldeep should not play at all, there is no need for it. This is a world of batsmen, who can never understand the confidence and rhythm of a bowler. I am a big fan of Indian cricket. I always think about Indian cricket. Even when IPL is going on, I keep thinking ‘what can this do for Indian cricket?’

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Ashwin further said, “Kuldeep is currently at a stage where he will play till the age of 35 or 36.” His contract is good; Recently he joined the IPL trade. He should have packed his things and come back. As Mohammad Kaif said, what’s the point of it?”

Ashwin also expressed confidence in Kuldeep’s ability. He described Kuldeep as the best wrist spinner in the world and said that his record is at par with some of the best white-ball spinners in the world.

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