ENG vs IND: Ex-England Spinner Backs Kuldeep Yadav for 2nd Test

Kuldeep Yadav Could Be India’s X-Factor in Second Test, Says Monty Panesar. Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes that Kuldeep Yadav could be the X-factor India needs in their playing XI for the second Test against England. The match is set to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston in Birmingham.

India will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing defeat in the opening Test of the five-match series, which was held at Headingley in Leeds. Despite strong batting efforts in both innings—aside from lower-order collapses—the Indian bowling attack failed to defend a 371-run target, with Jasprit Bumrah being the only standout performer.

With the series now moving to Edgbaston, changes in India’s bowling lineup appear likely, especially as several bowlers looked out of rhythm. Panesar believes Kuldeep Yadav could bring the unpredictability India needs.

Speaking to PTI, Panesar said:
“At Edgbaston, India could probably play (Ravindra) Jadeja and go for the X-factor spinner in Kuldeep Yadav. We know the Edgbaston wicket offers some turn, so that bit of an X-factor could make a big difference. There’s something special about him.”

Panesar further emphasized that Kuldeep Yadav doesn’t rely solely on turning pitches to be effective.
“This IPL showed that even without a lot of turn, he can bowl tough lines and make life hard for the batters,” he added.

Monty Panesar on Kuldeep Yadav: “He Has More of an X-Factor”

Former England spinner Monty Panesar has backed Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in India’s playing XI, citing the left-arm wrist spinner’s unique ability to turn matches with his attacking style. “I think they need to play Kuldeep because he has more of an X-factor. There’s something special about him,” Panesar said, while suggesting that Kuldeep could even replace Ravindra Jadeja in the lineup. “Jadeja tends to bowl too quickly, so I believe Kuldeep should be the main attacking option.”

However, Panesar acknowledged the likelihood that India might prefer a more balanced approach. “I don’t think India will go down that route entirely. They like having a defensive spinner in the side,” he noted. “Kuldeep isn’t a defensive bowler—he only looks to attack. And if he gets hit, it could put India in trouble. That’s why I think they’ll probably play two spinners: Jadeja as the defensive option, and Kuldeep as the attacking one.”

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• Monty Panesar on Kuldeep Yadav: “He Has More of an X-Factor”

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