Former Indian player Ravi Ashwin has endorsed Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav as a key weapon to counter England's aggressive "Bazball" approach during the upcoming tour.
As the Indian team embarks on a new era in Test cricket, following the retirement of veterans like Ravi Ashwin, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma, they will head to England with a fresh lineup under new long-term leadership. This tour poses a significant challenge for the Men in Blue, as England aims for a strong series win to kick off their new ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Acknowledging the formidable challenge posed by England, Ashwin shared his preferred playing XI for the Indian team to tackle the England attack on the green-top pitches.
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Ravi Ashwin’s Suggested Playing XI for the Headingley Tests
Ashwin's XI blends youth and experience, aiming to thrive in tough English conditions while maintaining the right balance to compete against the hosts.
For the opening positions, Ashwin recommends KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Rahul brings invaluable experience, and Jaiswal's eagerness to perform with the new ball adds an extra edge. He places Sai Sudharsan at number three due to his impressive dynamic batting approach witnessed during the IPL, along with a traditional outlook that impressed Ashwin.
Following Sudharsan, Shubman Gill is recommended for stability in the middle order, with Rishabh Pant at number five. At number six, Ashwin suggests either Nitish Kumar Reddy, should India require an extra bowler to counter the conditions, or Karun Nair, if an additional batter is needed. Ravindra Jadeja is included at number seven.
In terms of bowling, Ashwin advocates for a combination of Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj, highlighting that their experience will be crucial, particularly with Bumrah leading the attack.
KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Nitish Kumar Reddy/Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj
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Ravi Ashwin’s New Strategy: Kul-Ball
Ashwin emphasizes that if the pitch conditions are favorable, India should not overlook the importance of Kuldeep Yadav. He believes that Bazball relies heavily on a pace attack, and the mystery that Kuldeep adds to his bowling could disrupt the English rhythm, serving as a potential surprise for the Indian team. He concludes that if India opts for two spinners, Kuldeep Yadav should be the second choice.
