India spinner Kuldeep Yadav is eyeing a return to the Test side for the second match against England at Edgbaston, equipped with advice from an unlikely ally — former England batter Kevin Pietersen.
Kuldeep hasn’t played a red-ball match outside Asia in more than six years and last featured in Tests during India’s home series against New Zealand in October 2024.
But a recurring back injury of Jasprit Bumrah may pave the way for Kuldeep.
Speaking to The Indian Express, Kuldeep said he had in-depth discussions with Pietersen during their time together at Delhi Capitals in the IPL.
“He gave me a lot of inputs for the England tour — on field placements, pitches, batters, and the mindset needed,” Kuldeep said.
Pietersen’s key advice? Approach bowling in England with an attacking mindset.
“He told me spinners often come to England with a defensive approach, thinking fast bowlers will get all the wickets. But he said I must think about how to dismiss batters even if I get just 15–20 overs,” Kuldeep added.
Kuldeep has a solid Test record, bagging 56 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 22.16.
Though more known for his white-ball success — including key roles in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 and Champions Trophy 2025 wins — he’s keen to make a red-ball impact.
“Bowling is the only thing I know,” Kuldeep said. “If you don’t take wickets, you don’t deserve to play — whether in India or England. I know if I get my revs and drift right, wickets will come.”
Source: UNB
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