India will return to action for the second Test against England on July 2, 2025, at Edgbaston, hoping to bounce back after their five-wicket defeat in Leeds.
With the team under pressure, Ajinkya Rahane, former Test skipper, has shared his preferred bowling combination and he wants Shardul Thakur back in the eleven.
Talking on his YouTube channel ahead of the match, Rahane underlined the importance of having bowlers who can deliver breakthroughs at key moments. Among his suggestions was Shardul, a player he believes can pick wickets even on tough pitches.
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Rahane explains why Shardul deserves a spot in India’s XI for 2nd Test
Rahane feels that Shardul brings a unique quality to the bowling attack, "I would like to see Shardul playing this Test because he is your guy who can get you wickets." Rahane said.
In his view, if the pitch has grass and bounce, India should continue with Prasidh Krishna. But if the conditions are dry, Rahane suggested replacing Prasidh with Kuldeep Yadav, partnering him with Ravindra Jadeja for a two-spinner strategy.
"I do not see too many chances. I think if Bumrah doesn't play I would like to see Arshdeep Singh playing. If there is bounce and little grass on the wicket then continue with Prasidh Krishna," he said.
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"If it looks dry and the weather is also hot, then in place of Prasidh Krishna my choice will be Kuldeep Yadav. And Ravindra Jadeja as two spinners. If Bumrah doesn't play then Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur," he added.
Rahane backs Siraj and Jadeja to shine in IND vs ENG 2nd Test
While building his ideal lineup, Rahane picked Siraj and Jadeja as the two players who could make a strong impact at Edgbaston.
Siraj, he said, will need to step up and lead the attack if Bumrah doesn't play. Jadeja, meanwhile, could be crucial in the final innings if the pitch breaks up and offers turn. With rough patches expected by Day 4 or 5, Rahane believes Jadeja’s accuracy and ability to extract spin will come into play.
"Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja. If Bumrah does not play then Siraj will have to take that responsibility. He has the ability to get those wickets and bowl a match-winning spell. If the sun is out on day four and day five and the wicket is dry, there will be turn from the rough, then Jadeja will do well. I am looking forward to see these two guys." he said.
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India have not had a good run at Edgbaston historically, losing seven out of eight Tests played at the venue. But with the right mindset and smart team selection, Rahane believes the team can still turn things around.