ENG vs IND 2025: ‘We are trying to give Kuldeep a chance’ – Morkel

India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has defended the decision to exclude Kuldeep Yadav from India’s playing XI in the ongoing four-match Test series against England, stating that team balance and batting depth were the key considerations. With questions mounting over the absence of the wrist-spinner, especially after India’s bowling attack struggled during the fourth Test, Morkel emphasized that the coaching staff is aware of Kuldeep’s current form and are actively exploring ways to include him in the lineup. According to Morkel, Kuldeep’s inclusion would significantly alter the team's dynamics, especially in terms of batting depth, which is essential when playing against a side like England. “I think when he is included in the team, it is important to see how we can create balance and how we can make the batting order a little longer and stronger,” said Morkel, acknowledging the challenges of team selection in high-stakes matches.

India's bowling looked completely ineffective during England's batting display in the fourth Test, where the hosts amassed a massive 544 runs in 135 overs at an aggressive run rate of 4.03. The lack of penetration in the bowling attack was evident, with Mohammed Siraj appearing fatigued after featuring in the first three Tests, while Jasprit Bumrah suffered a minor ankle scare before returning to bowl. Debutant Anshul Kamboj, making his first appearance at this level, struggled to find rhythm and failed to make any significant impact, indicating that he may need more time to adjust to the demands of international cricket. Against this backdrop, many fans and analysts have pointed out that Kuldeep Yadav’s variation and experience might have added the necessary spark and unpredictability to the attack.

Morkel further clarified the team's stance by saying, “We have seen before that we have lost a lot of wickets. Kuldeep is world class and is bowling well at the moment, so we are trying our best to find ways to give him a chance.” The statement suggests that while Kuldeep’s exclusion is not a reflection of his form or skill, it’s more about the management’s effort to ensure overall team structure is not compromised. The spinning duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar picked up two wickets each on Day 3, but the pitch seemed to offer assistance that a wrist-spinner like Kuldeep could have exploited far better. His ability to turn the ball both ways and deceive batters with flight and variations is a trait India has missed during crucial moments in the series.

Morkel also touched upon another vital aspect: managing player workload during a grueling five-Test series. He said, “It is a real test. We often play three-Test series, and this is the first time in a long time that we have played a five-match series. It should not be overlooked, but in terms of conditioning, getting your players ready and preparing them for a Test series right after the IPL, sometimes becomes a problem.” This highlights the immense physical and mental demands placed on players, especially bowlers, who are required to maintain peak performance across extended series. The tight scheduling after the IPL has left little time for rest and recovery, forcing the coaching staff to make tough calls.

As India looks to bounce back in the remaining days of the fourth Test, the team’s management faces a critical question: can they afford to leave out a bowler of Kuldeep Yadav’s caliber any longer, especially when the pitch and match conditions seem tailor-made for his skills? With mounting pressure and series momentum at stake, all eyes will be on the team sheet and whether Morkel and the selection panel make the bold call to unleash Kuldeep in the final Test.