India’s bowling combination could be in for a shuffle as they prepare to take on England in the fourth Test of the ongoing series, starting Wednesday, July 23 at Old Trafford, Manchester.
With the series currently in England’s favour at 2-1, the pressure is firmly on the visitors to find the right mix of bowlers and stay alive in the contest.
Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar believes it’s time to make a “hardcore” decision and that might involve getting Kuldeep Yadav into the playing XI, even if it means tweaking the seam attack.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
Kuldeep Yadav backed for a comeback in the fourth Test
Despite being in the squad, Kuldeep Yadav hasn’t featured in any of the first three Tests. However, Manjrekar feels it's getting increasingly difficult to justify the wrist-spinner’s continued absence, especially with the series slipping away.
Manjrekar acknowledged that Washington Sundar’s performance, particularly his four-wicket haul in the second innings at Lord’s, makes it harder to slot Kuldeep in. Still, he hinted that India must think differently if they want to bounce back in the series.
"If you think hardcore and want to win, you have to think if you have that bowling attack. Bumrah is there. The others are there. But how long will you keep Kuldeep Yadav out? It seems difficult to get him in," Manjrekar said on Star Sports.
"So I see a change in the seam attack. I am very harsh here because we have a lot of seam talent that is fresh and ready to go. Bring them in," he added.
Will India rotate their fast bowlers for the Old Trafford Test?
Apart from Kuldeep’s potential inclusion, Manjrekar pointed out that a change in the seam attack could be coming. He referred to Akash Deep, who has looked promising at times but faded in impact as the innings progressed.
"We have seen Akash Deep before. He does well and then looks flat fast. Is this his bowling character?" said Manjrekar.
He also discussed the idea of giving Prasidh Krishna another shot due to the pace-friendly conditions in Manchester, but added that his expensive spells could be risky.
MORE: Which Indian batters have scored a Test century at Old Trafford in Manchester?
As an alternative, Arshdeep Singh’s name came up again, especially since the left-armer has county experience and offers a different angle.
"Getting Prasidh Krishna in at Old Trafford can be a temptation. There is pace and bounce there. Prasidh has played till now. He is a difficult bowler to control as he gives runs even though he takes wickets," said Manjrekar.
"If Arshdeep is the favorite, they can also try him. One selection here and there will not define victory or defeat. That pressure should be taken off. Arshdeep can be a temptation too. I would still lean towards a fresh fast bowler," he added.
With Bumrah expected to carry a heavy load again, India’s team management may consider bringing in fresh legs, be it Kuldeep to add spin variation or a new seam option to support the pace attack.