Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly advocated for the inclusion of left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the upcoming final One Day International (ODI) against Australia in Sydney. Ashwin argues that Kuldeep possesses a distinct threat that India’s bowling attack currently lacks.
Kuldeep Yadav has not featured in the first two matches of the series, both of which India lost, handing Australia an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match contest.
During his popular YouTube show, ‘Ash ki Baat,’ Ashwin detailed why Kuldeep’s presence could have dramatically altered the series outcome. He acknowledged the efforts of Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, who both managed to pick up wickets, but stressed the importance of consistent wicket-taking.
“Axar Patel and Washington Sundar both took wickets, so we can’t fault their efforts. But the key is taking wickets. Look at Adam Zampa—he took four wickets, and his ball spins too. Think about it, has Cooper Connolly ever faced Kuldeep? Matthew Short, maybe here and there. Alex Carey has faced him but struggled. Mitchell Owen hasn’t played against him at all,” Ashwin remarked, highlighting the lack of exposure Australian batsmen have had to Kuldeep’s unique style.
He continued, emphasizing the historical trend: “This Australian batting lineup hasn’t seen Kuldeep before. Historically, everyone who faces him early on struggles. So leaving him out isn’t the wisest call. I hope he gets a game in Sydney. Harshit Rana has contributed with both bat and ball, but Kuldeep offers something extra—he’s a proven wicket-taker.”
India’s final opportunity to avoid a series whitewash comes this Saturday in Sydney. In the second ODI held in Adelaide, India posted a total of 264 for 9. This score was primarily built on the back of Rohit Sharma’s impressive 73 runs off 97 balls, which included seven boundaries and two sixes, alongside Shreyas Iyer’s valuable 61. However, Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa was instrumental in dismantling the Indian batting lineup, claiming four wickets for 60 runs, while Xavier Bartlett also contributed with three wickets, notably dismissing Virat Kohli for a duck.
In their chase, Australia comfortably reached the target with more than three overs to spare. Cooper Connolly was the standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 61 runs off just 53 balls, featuring five fours and a six, while Matt Short also chipped in with a fluent fifty.
With the series already lost, India will be playing for pride in the final encounter. Ashwin’s comments underscore the ongoing discussion about Kuldeep Yadav’s absence and the potential strategic advantage his inclusion could offer the team.