Kuldeep Yadav's T20I Exile: A Crisis of Form or Faith?
The wrist-spinner's dwindling opportunities and underwhelming displays raise questions about his international future.
Kuldeep Yadav has drifted out of India's T20I plans, with his exclusion now extending well beyond a mere lack of game time. Despite featuring in only four T20Is this year, he has not been considered for any of the recent bilateral series, even when a fellow wrist-spinner was sidelined through injury. India's preference to blood newer options suggests his experience alone no longer guarantees a spot.
His limited appearances did yield five wickets at an average of 24 and an economy of 8.57, but the broader picture remains unflattering. In the latest IPL season, Kuldeep struggled to contain batters on flat surfaces, managing just 10 wickets in 11 innings while conceding over 10 runs per over. A late three-wicket haul offered some respite, but the damage to his reputation had already been done.
The growing reliance on alternatives like Ravi Bishnoi highlights a shift in India's spin-bowling strategy. Interestingly, Kuldeep's length remained largely accurate, suggesting his struggles were more about confidence and tactical support than technical ability. Yet with the team management appearing reluctant to back him, his road back to the T20I side looks increasingly steep.