Kuldeep Yadav Getting Wasted Under Gambhir " Says Ravichandran Ashwin

 

Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed concerns regarding Kuldeep Yadav's place in the Indian team, particularly after his exclusion from the Playing XI in the first ODI against Australia. 

Ashwin believes that Gautam Gambhir's emphasis on selecting more all-rounders to deepen the batting lineup is detrimental to the team's bowling strength and can negatively impact bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav. 

Here's a breakdown of Ashwin's comments:

Batting Depth vs. Bowling Strength: Ashwin acknowledged the desire for batting depth with all-rounders like Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, but he emphasized the need to also prioritize bowling strength.

Kuldeep's Freedom to Bowl: He questioned where Kuldeep Yadav would be able to bowl freely and effectively, especially on large grounds where overspin and bounce are crucial.

Impact of Being Dropped: Ashwin highlighted the emotional toll on players who are dropped despite good performances, suggesting it can make them question their abilities and contribution to the team. He urged for direct communication with such players.

Prioritizing Best Bowlers: Ashwin advocated for selecting the best bowlers rather than solely focusing on extending the batting lineup, especially when three all-rounders are already in the team. 

It's important to note that the decision to drop Kuldeep Yadav for the first ODI against Australia was reportedly due to overcast conditions and a pitch that favored seam bowlers, potentially reducing the need for multiple spinners. However, Ashwin's comments highlight a broader concern about team selection philosophy and the importance of recognizing the value of specialist bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav.