He went wicketless in 2018. But this is 2025 — and the stakes are much, much higher
The English summer is upon us, and with it comes India’s tour of England, kicking off on June 20. While the spotlight naturally hovers over Shubman Gill, the young skipper charting a new course in Test cricket, there’s another man preparing quietly in the background — Kuldeep Yadav. India’s only specialist spinner in the squad, and with R Ashwin stepping away from the format, Kuldeep has quietly slipped into a central role in India’s spin blueprint.
He’s no stranger to Test cricket — with 56 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 22.16, he’s among the most effective spinners in India’s recent history. Yet, overseas, particularly in England, the canvas has remained blank.
Kuldeep Yadav’s solitary appearance in whites on English soil occurred at Lord’s in 2018. He bowled nine overs, conceded 44 runs, and left without a wicket. The conditions were not in his favour — seam dominated, clouds loomed, and swing was the primary weapon.
At that time, India relied heavily on their seamers. Kuldeep was more of an experiment than a tactical asset. However, the team’s structure has since evolved. With Ashwin retired and no off-spinner in sight, Kuldeep could now be India’s X-factor — a wildcard capable of turning the tide when the pitch dries or the fourth innings arrives.
Despite the forgettable outing in London, Kuldeep has established an impressive record against England. In six Tests, he has taken 21 wickets at an average of 22.28 — including a five-wicket haul. His best figures of 5/72 came in Chennai in 2021, demonstrating his ability to penetrate quality batting line-ups.
England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach could work in his favour. Batters attempting to take him on might inadvertently play into his hands — particularly on pitches that tire as the match progresses.
Let’s call it as it is — India’s bowling unit is in transition. There’s no Mohammed Shami, a limited workload for Jasprit Bumrah, and little experience overall. Jadeja is the senior-most, but Kuldeep brings a different flavour — he turns the ball away from right-handers, can bowl long spells, and possesses subtle variations that can unsettle English batters who tend to struggle against wrist-spin.
Cricket experts like Mathew Hayden have highlighted the need for a “20-wicket bowler” — and Kuldeep could be that man. If he plays all five Tests, especially at venues like The Oval or Old Trafford, expect him to come into play when the game reaches Day 4 or 5.
For all the promise Kuldeep showed as a youngster, he has never truly owned the overseas spotlight. Injuries, selection snubs, and competition have continually pushed him down the pecking order. But now, with the path clear and the responsibility in his hands, it is his time to seize it.
England may not be a spinning paradise. Yet, even Shane Warne found a way here. Kuldeep possesses the craft. He has waited long enough.
If he receives the backing and finds his rhythm, England might just witness a different side of the left-arm chinaman. A match-winner. A magician. Or simply, India’s spin saviour away from home.
