Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has raised concerns over Kuldeep Yadav’s limited opportunities in the ODI team, saying the left-arm wrist-spinner is a proven match-winner and should remain an important part of India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Kuldeep Yadav was left out of three of India’s last four ODIs, including the opening match of the series against England in Birmingham. Instead, the team management picked spin-bowling all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, who offer more batting depth.
The decision worked in India’s favour in the first ODI. Axar Patel produced an all-round performance, taking 4/62 before scoring an unbeaten half-century. Washington Sundar also remained unbeaten on a fifty after going wicketless in his four overs, helping India successfully chase 263 with six wickets in hand.
Speaking on a cricket portal, Ashwin said he was unhappy with the way Kuldeep Yadav has been handled. He felt India used two finger spinners in conditions that were not particularly favourable for spin and stressed that Kuldeep’s unique skill set should not be ignored.
Ashwin also looked ahead to future tours and major tournaments, saying Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar will all be important, especially in places like South Africa. However, he believes that in the long run, there may only be room for one of Axar Patel or Washington Sundar alongside Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI.
Kuldeep also featured in just one match during India’s three-match home ODI series against Afghanistan. In Lucknow, he bowled his full 10 overs, conceding 42 runs but failed to take a wicket.
Ashwin also pointed out that India are still searching for a reliable replacement for Hardik Pandya, who is currently sidelined with an injury. In his absence, Shivam Dube has been given opportunities. Although Shivam Dube did not get a chance to bat in the first ODI against England, he impressed with the ball by returning figures of 1/27 from six overs.
Ashwin praised the team management for backing Sundar Dube, saying it was encouraging to see him complete his full spell, which he believes is a positive sign for India’s search for a pace-bowling all-rounder.
