India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak refused to comment on whether Kuldeep Yadav would have played the second Test against Sri Lanka if fit, as uncapped off-spinner Saransh Jain made his Test debut in Colombo on Sunday (Aug 23). Kotak brushed aside the question, saying he did not think it was a ‘relevant question’.&nbsp;There had been reports that Kuldeep could be left out in favour of the 33-year-old Jain.&nbsp;Head coach Gautam Gambhir did not discuss Kuldeep’s absence during his press conference on Aug 22. A day earlier, spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule had said Kuldeep was not training because he was ‘resting’.&nbsp;Kuldeep also did not train on the eve of the Test, however, he travelled with the team as usual and was named as a possible concussion substitute, which raised some questions. Jain eventually replaced him in the playing XI.&nbsp;“When we left, only his throat wasn’t well,” Kotak said in the post-day press conference.&nbsp;“He has recovered reasonably well. He looked good when I met him in the evening. So it came down to whether we need three fast bowlers or three spinners. And with them having four left-handers in the top order, it made sense to play an off-spinner.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-will-rishabh-pant-bat-on-day-2-india-coach-provides-injury-update-1787495273268">IND vs SL: Will Rishabh Pant bat on Day 2? India coach provides injury update</a>&nbsp;When asked if Kuldeep would have played had he been fully fit, Kotak appeared unhappy with the question, as it also raised doubts over the spinner’s position in the team’s preferred XI.&nbsp;“He genuinely had viral when he left from there (Galle, the venue for the first Test). If the team needs an off-spinner, there is no need to say that he (Kuldeep) isn’t well. If the guy is in no position to play, there is no point thinking about what would have been done if he would have been fit. It’s unfair to think like that,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/crowd-favourite-an-se-young-clinches-her-second-title-at-bwf-world-championships-1787492797944">Crowd favourite An Se-Young clinches her second title at BWF World Championships</a>&nbsp;The question comes amid growing doubts over Kuldeep’s position in the team. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently suggested that Kuldeep may not be captain Shubman Gill’s first-choice spinner in matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;There have also been calls for the attacking spinner to receive better ‘treatment’ from the team management.

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak dismissed a question about Kuldeep Yadav’s place in the team, calling it “irrelevant.”

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak refused to comment on whether Kuldeep Yadav would have played the second Test against Sri Lanka if fit, as uncapped off-spinner Saransh Jain made his Test debut in Colombo on Sunday (Aug 23). Kotak brushed aside the question, saying he did not think it was a ‘relevant question’. There had been reports that Kuldeep could be left out in favour of the 33-year-old Jain. Head coach Gautam Gambhir did not discuss Kuldeep’s absence during his press conference on Aug 22. A day earlier, spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule had said Kuldeep was not training because he was ‘resting’. Kuldeep also did not train on the eve of the Test, however, he travelled with the team as usual and was named as a possible concussion substitute, which raised some questions. Jain eventually replaced him in the playing XI. “When we left, only his throat wasn’t well,” Kotak said in the post-day press conference. “He has recovered reasonably well. He looked good when I met him in the evening. So it came down to whether we need three fast bowlers or three spinners. And with them having four left-handers in the top order, it made sense to play an off-spinner.” Also Read - IND vs SL: Will Rishabh Pant bat on Day 2? India coach provides injury update When asked if Kuldeep would have played had he been fully fit, Kotak appeared unhappy with the question, as it also raised doubts over the spinner’s position in the team’s preferred XI. “He genuinely had viral when he left from there (Galle, the venue for the first Test). If the team needs an off-spinner, there is no need to say that he (Kuldeep) isn’t well. If the guy is in no position to play, there is no point thinking about what would have been done if he would have been fit. It’s unfair to think like that,” he said. Also Read - Crowd favourite An Se-Young clinches her second title at BWF World Championships The question comes amid growing doubts over Kuldeep’s position in the team. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently suggested that Kuldeep may not be captain Shubman Gill’s first-choice spinner in matches. There have also been calls for the attacking spinner to receive better ‘treatment’ from the team management.

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak dismissed a question about Kuldeep Yadav’s place in the team, calling it “irrelevant.”

‘Not relevant’: India coach declines to answer question on Kuldeep Yadav

India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has backed Kuldeep Yadav ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka, saying the left-arm wrist-spinner bowled very well in Galle despite having to adjust his role according to the match situation.&nbsp;“He’s been bowling extremely well. It’s just that the situations that arose in Galle, he had to play a different role. So that’s all he had to adapt to, and he tried his best to adapt to that role and tried to execute as much as possible,” Bahutule said during the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;Kuldeep bowled with a flatter trajectory in Galle instead of his usual style of giving the ball more air. Bahutule explained that the change was made based on the pitch conditions and what was needed at different stages of the match.&nbsp;“We had to see how the trajectory or the speeds work in every session. And as the days went by, and as there was a demand for different types of speeds and different types of trajectories, he definitely was making an effort to bowl that,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/diamond-league-2026-live-when-and-where-to-watch-neeraj-chopra-s-javelin-event-1787314132744">Diamond League 2026 Live: When and where to watch Neeraj Chopra’s javelin event</a>&nbsp;Bahutule also said Kuldeep continued to rely on his strengths as a wrist-spinner, even as the pitch became slower during the Test.&nbsp;“He was playing his role. Each bowler has his own strengths. He was operating as a wrist-spinner in a way, where obviously the wicket got slower and slower each day. But I’m sure he was bowling the way he normally bowls,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read - &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bwf-world-championships-satwik-chirag-suffer-heartbreaking-loss-in-quarterfinals-to-chinese-pair-1787319256986">BWF World Championships: Satwik-Chirag knocked out after losing to Chinese pair</a>&nbsp;The India spin coach also praised young spinner Manav Suthar, saying his experience in domestic cricket has helped him understand his bowling well.&nbsp;“He’s somebody who, since he’s been bowling, has bowled a lot in domestic cricket in the Ranji Trophy. He’s done the hard yards, and he’s come into international cricket. So he understands his bowling well,” Bahutule said.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Kuldeep Yadav is expected to remain in India’s plans for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo despite a quiet outing in Galle. Spin coach Sairaj Bahutule has backed the wrist-spinner to make a comeback, even as Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja impressed in the series opener.

India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has backed Kuldeep Yadav ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka, saying the left-arm wrist-spinner bowled very well in Galle despite having to adjust his role according to the match situation. “He’s been bowling extremely well. It’s just that the situations that arose in Galle, he had to play a different role. So that’s all he had to adapt to, and he tried his best to adapt to that role and tried to execute as much as possible,” Bahutule said during the pre-match press conference. Kuldeep bowled with a flatter trajectory in Galle instead of his usual style of giving the ball more air. Bahutule explained that the change was made based on the pitch conditions and what was needed at different stages of the match. “We had to see how the trajectory or the speeds work in every session. And as the days went by, and as there was a demand for different types of speeds and different types of trajectories, he definitely was making an effort to bowl that,” he said. Also Read - Diamond League 2026 Live: When and where to watch Neeraj Chopra’s javelin event Bahutule also said Kuldeep continued to rely on his strengths as a wrist-spinner, even as the pitch became slower during the Test. “He was playing his role. Each bowler has his own strengths. He was operating as a wrist-spinner in a way, where obviously the wicket got slower and slower each day. But I’m sure he was bowling the way he normally bowls,” he added. Also Read - BWF World Championships: Satwik-Chirag knocked out after losing to Chinese pair The India spin coach also praised young spinner Manav Suthar, saying his experience in domestic cricket has helped him understand his bowling well. “He’s somebody who, since he’s been bowling, has bowled a lot in domestic cricket in the Ranji Trophy. He’s done the hard yards, and he’s come into international cricket. So he understands his bowling well,” Bahutule said. With inputs from agencies

Kuldeep Yadav is expected to remain in India’s plans for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo despite a quiet outing in Galle. Spin coach Sairaj Bahutule has backed the wrist-spinner to make a comeback, even as Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja impressed in the series opener.

'Bowling extremely well': India coach backs Kuldeep ahead of second Test vs Sri Lanka

From Jasprit Bumrah to Mohammed Siraj, here's a look at the top five active Indian bowlers with most wickets in Test cricket. This list also includes Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav

From Jasprit Bumrah to Mohammed Siraj, here's a look at the top five active Indian bowlers with most wickets in Test cricket. This list also includes Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav

Meet top 5 active Indian bowlers with most Test wickets, check who tops list

India men’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has dismissed concerns about Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness after the left-arm spinner did not bowl in the second innings of India’s three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka on Sunday (Aug 9). Bahutule said Kuldeep’s decision to sit out was precautionary, with the spinner wanting to “take a break” ahead of the upcoming two-Test series.&nbsp;Kuldeep was among India’s best bowlers in the first innings, taking two wickets in 18 overs and his role in the team has been under discussion for some time, with questions over the management’s confidence in him across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;He had also joined Yorkshire for the English One-Day Cup to get back into rhythm before the Sri Lanka tour.&nbsp;His absence from the second innings raised concerns, but Bahutule said there was no major fitness issue.&nbsp;“ Kuldeep bowled almost 20 overs in the sense 18 in the match and about two to three overs before the game also. He had a very good outing, and he just wanted to take a break in terms of just understanding how his body is at,” Bahutule said after the warm-up game here, as quoted by PTI.&nbsp;“The bowlers had a great opportunity to go down and express themselves on a pitch which was slightly on a flatter side on the first day. But as the days went by, there was more turn on to it and definitely a good outing for the spinners,” Bahutule added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-sarfaraz-khan-returns-to-india-test-squad-replaces-injured-sai-sudharsan-1786288282542">IND vs SL: Sarfaraz Khan returns to India Test squad, replaces injured Sai Sudharsan</a>&nbsp;Although the pitch offered more help to spinners as the match went on, India used mostly pacers in their second bowling innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Warm-up matches are generally not played exactly like Test matches, as they are mainly aimed at helping players adjust to the conditions and get enough match practice.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/those-who-play-will-flourish-pm-modi-interacts-with-india-s-cwg-medallists-1786286688262">‘Those who play, will flourish’: PM Modi interacts with India’s CWG medallists</a>&nbsp;Bahutule also praised India’s spin options, which included Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain, highlighting the different skills each bowler brings to the attack.&nbsp;“All four spinners have that uniqueness. We have got experience with Jaddu. We have got great accuracy levels with Manav Suthar. And, obviously, Saransh has got experience. He has performed really well in domestic cricket. And that is how he has earned his spot,” he said.&nbsp;“And Kuldeep, being a wrist spinner, it always helps to have a wrist spinner in the side so that there is variety.”

Kuldeep Yadav was rested from bowling in the second innings of India’s warm-up against Sri Lanka Cricket XI due to a heavy workload, with spin coach Sairaj Bahutule confirming it was a precautionary decision and not injury-related.

India men’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has dismissed concerns about Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness after the left-arm spinner did not bowl in the second innings of India’s three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka on Sunday (Aug 9). Bahutule said Kuldeep’s decision to sit out was precautionary, with the spinner wanting to “take a break” ahead of the upcoming two-Test series. Kuldeep was among India’s best bowlers in the first innings, taking two wickets in 18 overs and his role in the team has been under discussion for some time, with questions over the management’s confidence in him across formats. He had also joined Yorkshire for the English One-Day Cup to get back into rhythm before the Sri Lanka tour. His absence from the second innings raised concerns, but Bahutule said there was no major fitness issue. “ Kuldeep bowled almost 20 overs in the sense 18 in the match and about two to three overs before the game also. He had a very good outing, and he just wanted to take a break in terms of just understanding how his body is at,” Bahutule said after the warm-up game here, as quoted by PTI. “The bowlers had a great opportunity to go down and express themselves on a pitch which was slightly on a flatter side on the first day. But as the days went by, there was more turn on to it and definitely a good outing for the spinners,” Bahutule added. Also Read - IND vs SL: Sarfaraz Khan returns to India Test squad, replaces injured Sai Sudharsan Although the pitch offered more help to spinners as the match went on, India used mostly pacers in their second bowling innings. Warm-up matches are generally not played exactly like Test matches, as they are mainly aimed at helping players adjust to the conditions and get enough match practice. Also Read - ‘Those who play, will flourish’: PM Modi interacts with India’s CWG medallists Bahutule also praised India’s spin options, which included Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain, highlighting the different skills each bowler brings to the attack. “All four spinners have that uniqueness. We have got experience with Jaddu. We have got great accuracy levels with Manav Suthar. And, obviously, Saransh has got experience. He has performed really well in domestic cricket. And that is how he has earned his spot,” he said. “And Kuldeep, being a wrist spinner, it always helps to have a wrist spinner in the side so that there is variety.”

Kuldeep Yadav was rested from bowling in the second innings of India’s warm-up against Sri Lanka Cricket XI due to a heavy workload, with spin coach Sairaj Bahutule confirming it was a precautionary decision and not injury-related.

IND vs SL, warm-up: Why didn’t Kuldeep Yadav bowl in 2nd innings? India coach explains

Kuldeep Yadav has missed out on India's playing XI during the recent tours of England and Ireland, as the team opted for the spin-bowling all-rounder combination of Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. Speaking exclusively to WION’s Aditya Bhatia, India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal shared his thoughts on whether Kuldeep should have a permanent place in the playing XI despite the current team combination.&nbsp;When asked if India should continue with Axar Patel and Washington Sundar or include Kuldeep Yadav regularly, the 35-year-old said the decision should be based on the match conditions and the team’s needs.&nbsp;“In my opinion, it should depend on the conditions and the team’s requirements rather than having a fixed combination. On pitches that help spin, there can even be room for more than one specialist spinner. Kuldeep has proved himself many times and whenever he gets an opportunity, he has delivered. Healthy competition among players is always good because it pushes everyone to perform better," said Yuzi.&nbsp;"The most important thing is that India has strong bench strength and the team management has several quality options to choose from. That is a positive sign for Indian cricket.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-it-will-definitely-give-me-a-boost-pv-sindhu-on-how-japan-open-triumph-fuels-world-championships-hopes-1784485844070">Exclusive | 'It will definitely give me a boost': PV Sindhu on how Japan Open triumph fuels World Championships hopes</a><h3>Chahal and Ishant launch AQUON</h3>Meanwhile, Indian cricketers Ishant Sharma and Yuzvendra Chahal have launched AQUON, a daily hydration drink designed to help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance for both everyday consumers and athletes.&nbsp;AQUON is marketed by Delhi-based Kiyas Lab Private Limited, a DPIIT-recognised startup and is manufactured at Sapiens Labs in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-i-never-stop-practising-sachin-basheer-on-his-rise-from-caddie-to-champion-1784474343009">Exclusive | 'I never stop practising...': Sachin Baisoya on his rise from caddie to champion</a>&nbsp;Speaking about the idea behind the brand, Chahal and Ishant said, “We’ve both spent years training, travelling and playing in Indian conditions, so we know how important hydration is. But most products we came across were either too sugary, too medicinal in taste, too expensive or simply not enjoyable enough to have every day.&nbsp;We felt there was space for something that worked well, tasted genuinely good and fitted easily into everyday life and not just sport. We were also very clear that quality couldn’t be compromised, which is why our products are manufactured in an NSF-certified facility and that’s all where AQUON started.”

Should Kuldeep Yadav have a permanent place in India's XI? Yuzvendra Chahal opens up on India's spin selection debate.

Kuldeep Yadav has missed out on India's playing XI during the recent tours of England and Ireland, as the team opted for the spin-bowling all-rounder combination of Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. Speaking exclusively to WION’s Aditya Bhatia, India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal shared his thoughts on whether Kuldeep should have a permanent place in the playing XI despite the current team combination. When asked if India should continue with Axar Patel and Washington Sundar or include Kuldeep Yadav regularly, the 35-year-old said the decision should be based on the match conditions and the team’s needs. “In my opinion, it should depend on the conditions and the team’s requirements rather than having a fixed combination. On pitches that help spin, there can even be room for more than one specialist spinner. Kuldeep has proved himself many times and whenever he gets an opportunity, he has delivered. Healthy competition among players is always good because it pushes everyone to perform better," said Yuzi. "The most important thing is that India has strong bench strength and the team management has several quality options to choose from. That is a positive sign for Indian cricket.” Also Read - Exclusive | 'It will definitely give me a boost': PV Sindhu on how Japan Open triumph fuels World Championships hopes Chahal and Ishant launch AQUON Meanwhile, Indian cricketers Ishant Sharma and Yuzvendra Chahal have launched AQUON, a daily hydration drink designed to help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance for both everyday consumers and athletes. AQUON is marketed by Delhi-based Kiyas Lab Private Limited, a DPIIT-recognised startup and is manufactured at Sapiens Labs in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. Also Read - Exclusive | 'I never stop practising...': Sachin Baisoya on his rise from caddie to champion Speaking about the idea behind the brand, Chahal and Ishant said, “We’ve both spent years training, travelling and playing in Indian conditions, so we know how important hydration is. But most products we came across were either too sugary, too medicinal in taste, too expensive or simply not enjoyable enough to have every day. We felt there was space for something that worked well, tasted genuinely good and fitted easily into everyday life and not just sport. We were also very clear that quality couldn’t be compromised, which is why our products are manufactured in an NSF-certified facility and that’s all where AQUON started.”

Should Kuldeep Yadav have a permanent place in India's XI? Yuzvendra Chahal opens up on India's spin selection debate.

Exclusive | 'The team has several quality options': Yuzvendra Chahal on India's Kuldeep-Axar-Washington selection debate

India is gearing up for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, starting in just two days, and Kuldeep Yadav, the ace spinner, admits feeling pressured switching from the IPL mode to red-ball cricket. Although ready and raring to go in his shot at redemption following an underwhelming IPL season, Kuldeep wants to get back to picking up wickets and feeling the same when he is at the top of his game.&nbsp;"It is tough when you switch from IPL cricket to red-ball cricket," Kuldeep said in a chat with PTI facilitated by JioHotstar. "Preparation becomes very necessary." &nbsp;Unlike a few of the other players, including his team captain Shubman Gill and his GT opening partner Sai Sudharsan, Kuldeep’s IPL franchise, the Delhi Capitals, failed to qualify for the playoffs; as a result, Kuldeep had ample time to get back into the Test Cricket zone. Revealing how he has been practising in the meantime, Kuldeep said,&nbsp; &nbsp;"Luckily, I got time. I practised for at least 10 to 15 days and got the feel of the red ball. In T20, you are always attacking. You always think about going after the batter. You stay in the game with that mindset. But in Test cricket, it's not like that. The batter has a lot of time. &nbsp;"Some players are coming straight after the IPL final. They don't have that much time. But I'm sure they have prepared well. So yes, it's a challenge, but I'm confident that everyone is preparing themselves well,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-odi-series-ruturaj-gaikwad-to-replace-virat-kohli-afghanistan-odis-rcb-captain-rajat-patidar-earns-india-a-call-up-for-sri-lanka-tri-series-1780570955915">Ruturaj Gaikwad to replace Virat Kohli for Afghanistan ODIs; RCB captain Patidar earns India-A call-up</a> &nbsp;For Delhi this season, Kuldeep returned with underwhelming numbers, picking just 12 wickets while averaging over 38 and an economy of 10.29. However, with him being the most senior spinner for this Test, Kuldeep also talked about comforting the newcomers, including Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar. &nbsp;"Whenever a new player joins the team, your job is to make him comfortable. You want him to see you as a partner. If he has any problem, he should feel free to talk to you, and you must be ready to support him. Over the last two years, these young players [Dubey and Suthar] have been part of India A tours. They are also playing the Duleep Trophy and Irani Trophy regularly. &nbsp;"So, there might be a lack of international experience, but when it comes to preparation, match awareness, or red-ball cricket, they are absolutely on top because they are playing regularly,” he added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan gets underway in New Chandigarh and doesn’t fall under the current WTC cycle.&nbsp;

"It's a challenge," admits Kuldeep Yadav as he switches from IPL mode to red-ball cricket ahead of India's one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh. Read his thoughts on preparation, regaining his rhythm, and mentoring debutants Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar.

India is gearing up for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, starting in just two days, and Kuldeep Yadav, the ace spinner, admits feeling pressured switching from the IPL mode to red-ball cricket. Although ready and raring to go in his shot at redemption following an underwhelming IPL season, Kuldeep wants to get back to picking up wickets and feeling the same when he is at the top of his game. "It is tough when you switch from IPL cricket to red-ball cricket," Kuldeep said in a chat with PTI facilitated by JioHotstar. "Preparation becomes very necessary." Unlike a few of the other players, including his team captain Shubman Gill and his GT opening partner Sai Sudharsan, Kuldeep’s IPL franchise, the Delhi Capitals, failed to qualify for the playoffs; as a result, Kuldeep had ample time to get back into the Test Cricket zone. Revealing how he has been practising in the meantime, Kuldeep said, "Luckily, I got time. I practised for at least 10 to 15 days and got the feel of the red ball. In T20, you are always attacking. You always think about going after the batter. You stay in the game with that mindset. But in Test cricket, it's not like that. The batter has a lot of time. "Some players are coming straight after the IPL final. They don't have that much time. But I'm sure they have prepared well. So yes, it's a challenge, but I'm confident that everyone is preparing themselves well,” he added. Also read | Ruturaj Gaikwad to replace Virat Kohli for Afghanistan ODIs; RCB captain Patidar earns India-A call-up For Delhi this season, Kuldeep returned with underwhelming numbers, picking just 12 wickets while averaging over 38 and an economy of 10.29. However, with him being the most senior spinner for this Test, Kuldeep also talked about comforting the newcomers, including Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar. "Whenever a new player joins the team, your job is to make him comfortable. You want him to see you as a partner. If he has any problem, he should feel free to talk to you, and you must be ready to support him. Over the last two years, these young players [Dubey and Suthar] have been part of India A tours. They are also playing the Duleep Trophy and Irani Trophy regularly. "So, there might be a lack of international experience, but when it comes to preparation, match awareness, or red-ball cricket, they are absolutely on top because they are playing regularly,” he added. Meanwhile, India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan gets underway in New Chandigarh and doesn’t fall under the current WTC cycle.

"It's a challenge," admits Kuldeep Yadav as he switches from IPL mode to red-ball cricket ahead of India's one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh. Read his thoughts on preparation, regaining his rhythm, and mentoring debutants Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar.

IND vs AFG, one-off Test: Kuldeep eyes red-ball redemption after underwhelming IPL 2026

Delhi Capitals ended their IPL 2026 campaign on a winning note with a convincing 40-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Sunday (May 24), however, both teams were already out of playoff contention following Rajasthan Royals’ win over Mumbai Indians earlier in the day. Batting first, DC posted a strong total of 203/5 in 20 overs. Their openers got off to a brisk start as KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel added 40 runs for the opening wicket before Porel departed for 22 off 18 balls to Saurabh Dubey.&nbsp;Youngster Sahil Parakh chipped in with 24 off 17 before Sunil Narine ended his stay at the crease.&nbsp;Rahul steadied the innings and brought up his fifty while sharing a crucial partnership with captain Axar Patel as DC crossed the 100-run mark. Rahul’s entertaining knock of 60 from 30 balls ended when he was dismissed by Anukul Roy, while Axar continued the momentum with a valuable 39 before falling to Varun Chakravarthy.&nbsp;David Miller then added quick runs with a 28-run cameo, while Ashutosh Sharma remained unbeaten on 18 to help Delhi Capitals finish with a challenging target of 204 for KKR.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-playoffs-rcb-set-to-face-gt-in-qualifier-1-srh-meet-rr-in-eliminator-1779635767565">IPL 2026 Playoffs: RCB set to face GT in Qualifier 1, SRH meet RR in Eliminator</a>&nbsp;In reply, KKR began positively as Ajinkya Rahane and Finn Allen stitched together a 43-run opening stand, Allen scored 20 off 13 before Ngidi provided the breakthrough. Manish Pandey contributed 25, while Rahane continued to lead the chase and completed a half-century.&nbsp;Ngidi struck again to remove Pandey and Kuldeep Yadav turned the game in DC’s favour by dismissing Cameron Green. Rahane’s fighting 63 off 39 balls came to an end by Kuldeep, who then removed Rinku Singh for a golden duck on the very next delivery.&nbsp;Axar Patel chipped in with the wicket of Tejaswi Singh, while Rovman Powell’s 29 off 21 offered short resistance for his team. Mitchell Starc also joined the wicket-taking group, dismissing Anukul Roy and Kartik Tyagi.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the end, Ngidi wrapped up the innings by removing Varun Chakravarthy as KKR were bowled out for 163.

A brilliant fifty from KL Rahul guided DC to 203/5, while Kuldeep Yadav and Lungi Ngidi claimed three wickets each as KKR were bundled out for 163.

Delhi Capitals ended their IPL 2026 campaign on a winning note with a convincing 40-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Sunday (May 24), however, both teams were already out of playoff contention following Rajasthan Royals’ win over Mumbai Indians earlier in the day. Batting first, DC posted a strong total of 203/5 in 20 overs. Their openers got off to a brisk start as KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel added 40 runs for the opening wicket before Porel departed for 22 off 18 balls to Saurabh Dubey. Youngster Sahil Parakh chipped in with 24 off 17 before Sunil Narine ended his stay at the crease. Rahul steadied the innings and brought up his fifty while sharing a crucial partnership with captain Axar Patel as DC crossed the 100-run mark. Rahul’s entertaining knock of 60 from 30 balls ended when he was dismissed by Anukul Roy, while Axar continued the momentum with a valuable 39 before falling to Varun Chakravarthy. David Miller then added quick runs with a 28-run cameo, while Ashutosh Sharma remained unbeaten on 18 to help Delhi Capitals finish with a challenging target of 204 for KKR. Also Read - IPL 2026 Playoffs: RCB set to face GT in Qualifier 1, SRH meet RR in Eliminator In reply, KKR began positively as Ajinkya Rahane and Finn Allen stitched together a 43-run opening stand, Allen scored 20 off 13 before Ngidi provided the breakthrough. Manish Pandey contributed 25, while Rahane continued to lead the chase and completed a half-century. Ngidi struck again to remove Pandey and Kuldeep Yadav turned the game in DC’s favour by dismissing Cameron Green. Rahane’s fighting 63 off 39 balls came to an end by Kuldeep, who then removed Rinku Singh for a golden duck on the very next delivery. Axar Patel chipped in with the wicket of Tejaswi Singh, while Rovman Powell’s 29 off 21 offered short resistance for his team. Mitchell Starc also joined the wicket-taking group, dismissing Anukul Roy and Kartik Tyagi. In the end, Ngidi wrapped up the innings by removing Varun Chakravarthy as KKR were bowled out for 163.

A brilliant fifty from KL Rahul guided DC to 203/5, while Kuldeep Yadav and Lungi Ngidi claimed three wickets each as KKR were bundled out for 163.

IPL 2026: DC end season on high with dominant 40-run win over KKR

From Ravindra Jadeja to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian spinners with most international wickets. This list also includes Anil Kumble, Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh

From Ravindra Jadeja to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian spinners with most international wickets. This list also includes Anil Kumble, Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh

Meet top 5 Indian spinners with most international wickets

Team India will step into the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday (Mar 8) as they take on New Zealand in the summit clash. The event at the Narendra Modi Stadium is likely to raise eyebrows, as India has two weak spots to address, with Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy out of form. However, it is the latter’s position that looks in jeopardy as Team India might do the unthinkable and bring in Kuldeep Yadav.<h2>Kuldeep in, Varun out for T20 World Cup final?</h2>So far in the T20 World Cup, Varun has scalped 13 wickets and on paper, it looks like a good return for the Indian team’s investment. However, it is Varun’s predictable nature with the ball that could see him walk the flame for a place in the Playing XI. In his last four innings with the ball, he has been smashed for a combined 186 runs while scalping just four wickets.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Varun’s return of 186/4 in 16 overs has seen him attract critics and could face the heat in the final. His economy rate has become a huge concern for the team management considering India have looted runs against Zimbabwe and England in their recent encounters. In fact, India narrowly avoided a defeat against England in the semis despite scoring 253 runs.&nbsp;Kuldeep, on the other hand, is yet to feature in a T20 World Cup contest on Indian soil. His only T20 World Cup game was against Pakistan in Colombo, where he had figures of 14/1.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;So it will be interesting to see who gets the nod in the final, as India are favourites to win. They have enjoyed a stellar run in the tournament, having lost only one match so far, which was against South Africa in the Super 8. India are also bidding to become the first team to defend their T20 World Cup title, which they also won in 2024.

Varun Chakaravarthy's return of 186/4 in 16 overs has seen him attract critics and could face the heat in the final. His economy rate has become a huge concern for the team management considering India have looted runs against Zimbabwe and England in their recent encounters. 

Team India will step into the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday (Mar 8) as they take on New Zealand in the summit clash. The event at the Narendra Modi Stadium is likely to raise eyebrows, as India has two weak spots to address, with Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy out of form. However, it is the latter’s position that looks in jeopardy as Team India might do the unthinkable and bring in Kuldeep Yadav. Kuldeep in, Varun out for T20 World Cup final? So far in the T20 World Cup, Varun has scalped 13 wickets and on paper, it looks like a good return for the Indian team’s investment. However, it is Varun’s predictable nature with the ball that could see him walk the flame for a place in the Playing XI. In his last four innings with the ball, he has been smashed for a combined 186 runs while scalping just four wickets. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Varun’s return of 186/4 in 16 overs has seen him attract critics and could face the heat in the final. His economy rate has become a huge concern for the team management considering India have looted runs against Zimbabwe and England in their recent encounters. In fact, India narrowly avoided a defeat against England in the semis despite scoring 253 runs. Kuldeep, on the other hand, is yet to feature in a T20 World Cup contest on Indian soil. His only T20 World Cup game was against Pakistan in Colombo, where he had figures of 14/1. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli So it will be interesting to see who gets the nod in the final, as India are favourites to win. They have enjoyed a stellar run in the tournament, having lost only one match so far, which was against South Africa in the Super 8. India are also bidding to become the first team to defend their T20 World Cup title, which they also won in 2024.

Varun Chakaravarthy's return of 186/4 in 16 overs has seen him attract critics and could face the heat in the final. His economy rate has become a huge concern for the team management considering India have looted runs against Zimbabwe and England in their recent encounters.&nbsp;

IND vs NZ, T20 World Cup final: Kuldeep in, Varun out; will India pull the plug for high-stakes contest?

The India vs Pakistan matches are always high intensity with players from both team under pressure to perform. In the latest match of now deadbeat rivalry on Sunday (Feb 15), India skipper Suryakumar Yadav was also seen losing his cool over spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the last monents of the game. The two, however, have cleared the air with a lighthearted video on Instagram, depicting the exact moment from the mach which led to the speculation of not all being good in the Indian camp. As for the match, India beat Pakistan by 61 runs too qualify for the next round of Super 8 and took another step closer to their title defence.<h2>What happened between Kuldeep and Suryakumar in India vs Pakistan</h2>After the match got over, Surya was congratulating and shaking hands with the Indian players. When SKY shook hands with Kuldeep, the spinner - playing his first match in the tournament - was seen as a bit rude before walking away without looking at the skipper with just a formality of the hand shake, leaving Surya shocked. What led to Kuldeep being upset was Surya not being happy about Kuldeep dropping a catch in the final stages of the match.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-australia-almost-out-of-super-8-here-s-how-they-can-qualify-after-loss-vs-sl-1771297129216">T20 WC 2026 | AUS out of Super 8? 2021 champs need 'luck of Irish' to qualify</a>In a video shared on Instagram, Surya and Kuldeep recreated the exact moment and seemed to have buried the hatchet as the caption of the video suggested: "Gussac chodh to bhai" which translates to "stop being upset, brother." Have a look at the video below:

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU0cXzBCNFv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Surya Kumar Yadav (SKY) (@surya_14kumar)</a></div></blockquote>
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<h2>India play Netherlands in dead rubber group stage match on Feb 18</h2>India, with three wins in three matches in Group A, have already qualified for the Super 8. They now face Netherlands in their last Group A fixture on Wednesday (Feb 18). In Super 8, India's first match will be against South Africa on Feb 22 in Ahmedabad. In the second Super 8 match, India face topper of Group B - most likely Sri Lanka - on Feb 26 in Chennai. In the final Super 8 match, India take on West Indies on March 1 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.&nbsp;

What led to Kuldeep being upset was Surya not being happy about Kuldeep dropping a catch in the final stages of the India vs Pak match on Feb 15. In a video shared on Instagram, Surya and Kuldeep recreated the exact moment and seemed to have buried the hatchet.

The India vs Pakistan matches are always high intensity with players from both team under pressure to perform. In the latest match of now deadbeat rivalry on Sunday (Feb 15), India skipper Suryakumar Yadav was also seen losing his cool over spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the last monents of the game. The two, however, have cleared the air with a lighthearted video on Instagram, depicting the exact moment from the mach which led to the speculation of not all being good in the Indian camp. As for the match, India beat Pakistan by 61 runs too qualify for the next round of Super 8 and took another step closer to their title defence. What happened between Kuldeep and Suryakumar in India vs Pakistan After the match got over, Surya was congratulating and shaking hands with the Indian players. When SKY shook hands with Kuldeep, the spinner - playing his first match in the tournament - was seen as a bit rude before walking away without looking at the skipper with just a formality of the hand shake, leaving Surya shocked. What led to Kuldeep being upset was Surya not being happy about Kuldeep dropping a catch in the final stages of the match. Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | AUS out of Super 8? 2021 champs need 'luck of Irish' to qualify In a video shared on Instagram, Surya and Kuldeep recreated the exact moment and seemed to have buried the hatchet as the caption of the video suggested: "Gussac chodh to bhai" which translates to "stop being upset, brother." Have a look at the video below:

What led to Kuldeep being upset was Surya not being happy about Kuldeep dropping a catch in the final stages of the India vs Pak match on Feb 15. In a video shared on Instagram, Surya and Kuldeep recreated the exact moment and seemed to have buried the hatchet.

T20 World Cup 2026 | WATCH - Surya, Kuldeep recreate 'friction' from IND vs PAK to bury hatchet

India made two key changes to their Playing XI for the Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2026, as Abhishek Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav returning to the side. Playing at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the changes were confirmed by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where Pakistan won the flip of the coin and opted to bowl first. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh and Sanju Samson missed out. Meanwhile, the Men in Green have opted to go with an unchanged XI from their previous outing.<h2>Abhishek, Kuldeep in, Arshdeep, Samson out</h2>Abhishek Sharma returned to the top of the batting order, replacing Sanju Samson. Mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav replaces Arshdeep Singh in the team. With Kuldeep’s return, India now have more spin options, aiming to make the most of the turning pitch in Colombo.&nbsp;The 25-year old had missed India’s previous match against Namibia in Delhi due to illness. However, he trained with the team on Saturday and looked in good touch. The left-hander appeared fully fit in the nets, playing confidently. He batted against spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy and hit them powerfully around the ground at the R. Premadasa Stadium before shifting to face the pacers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2026-match-30-check-live-streaming-details-head-to-head-pitch-weather-report-1771153953535">AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 30: Check live streaming details, head-to-head, pitch &amp; weather report</a><h2>India Playing XI vs Pakistan</h2>India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah<h2>Pakistan Playing XI vs India</h2>Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmad and Usman Tariq

Playing at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the changes were confirmed by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where Pakistan won the flip of the coin and opted to bowl first. 

India made two key changes to their Playing XI for the Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2026, as Abhishek Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav returning to the side. Playing at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the changes were confirmed by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where Pakistan won the flip of the coin and opted to bowl first. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh and Sanju Samson missed out. Meanwhile, the Men in Green have opted to go with an unchanged XI from their previous outing. Abhishek, Kuldeep in, Arshdeep, Samson out Abhishek Sharma returned to the top of the batting order, replacing Sanju Samson. Mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav replaces Arshdeep Singh in the team. With Kuldeep’s return, India now have more spin options, aiming to make the most of the turning pitch in Colombo. The 25-year old had missed India’s previous match against Namibia in Delhi due to illness. However, he trained with the team on Saturday and looked in good touch. The left-hander appeared fully fit in the nets, playing confidently. He batted against spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy and hit them powerfully around the ground at the R. Premadasa Stadium before shifting to face the pacers. Also Read - AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 30: Check live streaming details, head-to-head, pitch & weather report India Playing XI vs Pakistan India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah Pakistan Playing XI vs India Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmad and Usman Tariq

Playing at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the changes were confirmed by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where Pakistan won the flip of the coin and opted to bowl first.&nbsp;

IND vs PAK, T20 World Cup 2026: Abhishek Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav return to Playing XI; Arshdeep, Samson miss out

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has all but confirmed the bowling line-up and combination for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 and there's no place for chinaman spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Speaking after India's final T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand, SKY revealed that 'two spinners and two pacers' is a good option for them, considering the grounds and conditions. The ICC tournament, which starts Feb 7, is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka with SKY's team set to play all their matches in India except against Pakistan, which is scheduled in Colombo on Feb 15. The India vs Pakistan contest is, however, uncertain with Pakistan government announcing boycott of the match on Sunday (Feb 1).Surya all but confirms India's bowling combination for T20 World Cup 2026"With such a high-risk, high-reward game at the top, we definitely need an extra batter at No. 8. So Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel all bowling their quotas is a big boost. And then Hardik [Pandya] and Shivam Dube can chip in with two-two overs, some days maybe Abhishek Sharma too. So we have a lot of bowling options," said Surya after the final India vs NZ T20I on Saturday (Jan 31).Shall India go by SKY's line-up, Kuldeep Yadav and Harshit Rana may found themselves on the bench barring rotation or injury.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-not-our-decision-pakistan-skipper-salman-agha-on-india-match-boycott-1770010346685">T20 World Cup 2026 | Pakistan skipper Salman Agha reacts to India match boycott</a>Explaining his reasons on why the bowling line-up doesn't include three spinners as it did during the Asia Cup, which took place in the UAE, SKY said: "During the Asia Cup, the ground dimensions were completely different," he said. "It was a bigger ground and the wickets were a little on the slower side. So we needed that extra spinner. But in India, I think the wickets will be quite good. So two fast bowlers and two spinners is a good combination to go ahead with."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-packed-my-kit-bag-india-skipper-sky-on-how-he-found-his-form-back-in-nz-series-1770014186071">Surya finds his from in time for India</a>In the recently-concluded 5-T20I series against New Zealand, which India won 4-1 in last assignment before the T20 WC, skipper Surya roared back to form. He scored 242 runs in five matches with three fifties and a highest of 82 not out at an average of 80 and a strike rate of nearly 197. Before the NZ series, SKY had scored almost same runs in 25 matches - marking his return to form before India start their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign as defending champions.

India fielded three spinners in the last multi-team tournament, Asia Cup, but SKY says ‘two spinners and two pacers’ is a good combo for T20 World Cup 2026, given the biggest grounds and quicker wickets in India than in Asia Cup which took place in the UAE. 

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has all but confirmed the bowling line-up and combination for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 and there's no place for chinaman spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Speaking after India's final T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand, SKY revealed that 'two spinners and two pacers' is a good option for them, considering the grounds and conditions. The ICC tournament, which starts Feb 7, is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka with SKY's team set to play all their matches in India except against Pakistan, which is scheduled in Colombo on Feb 15. The India vs Pakistan contest is, however, uncertain with Pakistan government announcing boycott of the match on Sunday (Feb 1). Surya all but confirms India's bowling combination for T20 World Cup 2026 "With such a high-risk, high-reward game at the top, we definitely need an extra batter at No. 8. So Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel all bowling their quotas is a big boost. And then Hardik [Pandya] and Shivam Dube can chip in with two-two overs, some days maybe Abhishek Sharma too. So we have a lot of bowling options," said Surya after the final India vs NZ T20I on Saturday (Jan 31). Shall India go by SKY's line-up, Kuldeep Yadav and Harshit Rana may found themselves on the bench barring rotation or injury. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026 | Pakistan skipper Salman Agha reacts to India match boycott Explaining his reasons on why the bowling line-up doesn't include three spinners as it did during the Asia Cup, which took place in the UAE, SKY said: "During the Asia Cup, the ground dimensions were completely different," he said. "It was a bigger ground and the wickets were a little on the slower side. So we needed that extra spinner. But in India, I think the wickets will be quite good. So two fast bowlers and two spinners is a good combination to go ahead with." Surya finds his from in time for India In the recently-concluded 5-T20I series against New Zealand, which India won 4-1 in last assignment before the T20 WC, skipper Surya roared back to form. He scored 242 runs in five matches with three fifties and a highest of 82 not out at an average of 80 and a strike rate of nearly 197. Before the NZ series, SKY had scored almost same runs in 25 matches - marking his return to form before India start their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign as defending champions.

India fielded three spinners in the last multi-team tournament, Asia Cup, but SKY says ‘two spinners and two pacers’ is a good combo for T20 World Cup 2026, given the biggest grounds and quicker wickets in India than in Asia Cup which took place in the UAE.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026 | No place for Kuldeep: India skipper Suryakumar all but confirms bowling line-up

A historic bowling milestone, five Indian match-winners, and a race defined by pace, spin, and precision. This story uncovers a record that shaped ODI cricket and celebrates moments that changed games forever.

A historic bowling milestone, five Indian match-winners, and a race defined by pace, spin, and precision. This story uncovers a record that shaped ODI cricket and celebrates moments that changed games forever.

Meet 5 Indian bowlers fastest to 150 ODI wickets

From Keshav Maharaj to Rashid Khan, here's a look at the top five bowlers in latest ICC ODI rankings 2026. This list also includes Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana and Kuldeep Yadav

From Keshav Maharaj to Rashid Khan, here's a look at the top five bowlers in latest ICC ODI rankings 2026. This list also includes Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana and Kuldeep Yadav

Meet top 5 bowlers in latest ICC ODI bowling rankings 2026

From Jacob Duffy to Blessing Muzarabani, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in 2025. This list also includes Matt Henry, Kuldeep Yadav and Ali Dawood

From Jacob Duffy to Blessing Muzarabani, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in 2025. This list also includes Matt Henry, Kuldeep Yadav and Ali Dawood

Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in 2025, one Indian on list

From Varun Chakravarthy to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers with most wickets in 2025. This list also includes Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah

From Varun Chakravarthy to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers with most wickets in 2025. This list also includes Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah

Meet top 5 Indian bowlers with most wickets in 2025, check who tops the list

India has concluded its 2025 international calendar following the T20I series win over South Africa. Here are the top five bowlers who picked up the most wickets across formats this year. 

India has concluded its 2025 international calendar following the T20I series win over South Africa. Here are the top five bowlers who picked up the most wickets across formats this year.&nbsp;

From Kuldeep Yadav to Ravindra Jadeja, top 5 Indian bowlers with most wickets in 2025

From Varun Chakravarthy to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers with most T20I wickets in 2025. This list also includes Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah

From Varun Chakravarthy to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers with most T20I wickets in 2025. This list also includes Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah

Meet top 5 Indian bowlers with most T20I wickets in 2025, check who tops the list

Marco Jansen, after starring with the bat on day 2 (Nov 23) of the ongoing second Test against India, showed his bowling prowess on day 3 (Nov 24) to help his take a mammoth 288 lead in the fist innings. After scoring 93 runs with the bat and help South Africa post 489 in the first innings, Jansen took 6/48 to skittle India out for just 201 runs. By the close of play, South Africa were firmly in the driver seat, having scored 26/0 runs in the second innings and swelling the total lead to 314.<h2>Marco Jansen runs riot in Guwahati</h2>Unlike the case in the first Test where South African spinners made Indian batters dance, pacer Marco Jansen took lead in Guwahati. The lanky left-arm bowler, on a traditional Indian pitch, extracted more bounce than any other bowler and claimed six wickets. Jansen had also scored 93 runs in the first innings after coming in to bat at number 9 and played a vital role in taking his team the formidable first innings total of 489.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-kuldeep-s-134-ball-innings-in-guwahati-is-longest-by-any-indian-batter-this-series-1763977940228">IND vs SA: Kuldeep's 134-ball innings in Guwahati is longest by any Indian batter this series</a><h2>India batting falters yet again</h2>India started the day from overnight score of 9/0 and openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL added 65 runs before the first wicket fell. A 30-run second-wicket partnership followed after which India went right for India. From 65/0 at a stage, India ended the first session at 102/4. In the second session, India lost three more wickets quickly and became 122/7 before Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav joined the forces. Sundar scored 48 off 92 while Kuldeep batted 134 balls for his 19 runs as the pair took India near to 200 before Jansen came back again and wiped the tail as well.

After scoring 93 runs with the bat and help South Africa post 489 in the first innings, Jansen took 6/48 to skittle India out for just 201 runs. By the close of play, South Africa were firmly in the driver seat, having scored 26/0 runs in the second innings and swelling the total lead to 314.

Marco Jansen, after starring with the bat on day 2 (Nov 23) of the ongoing second Test against India, showed his bowling prowess on day 3 (Nov 24) to help his take a mammoth 288 lead in the fist innings. After scoring 93 runs with the bat and help South Africa post 489 in the first innings, Jansen took 6/48 to skittle India out for just 201 runs. By the close of play, South Africa were firmly in the driver seat, having scored 26/0 runs in the second innings and swelling the total lead to 314. Marco Jansen runs riot in Guwahati Unlike the case in the first Test where South African spinners made Indian batters dance, pacer Marco Jansen took lead in Guwahati. The lanky left-arm bowler, on a traditional Indian pitch, extracted more bounce than any other bowler and claimed six wickets. Jansen had also scored 93 runs in the first innings after coming in to bat at number 9 and played a vital role in taking his team the formidable first innings total of 489. Also Read - IND vs SA: Kuldeep's 134-ball innings in Guwahati is longest by any Indian batter this series India batting falters yet again India started the day from overnight score of 9/0 and openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL added 65 runs before the first wicket fell. A 30-run second-wicket partnership followed after which India went right for India. From 65/0 at a stage, India ended the first session at 102/4. In the second session, India lost three more wickets quickly and became 122/7 before Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav joined the forces. Sundar scored 48 off 92 while Kuldeep batted 134 balls for his 19 runs as the pair took India near to 200 before Jansen came back again and wiped the tail as well.

After scoring 93 runs with the bat and help South Africa post 489 in the first innings, Jansen took 6/48 to skittle India out for just 201 runs. By the close of play, South Africa were firmly in the driver seat, having scored 26/0 runs in the second innings and swelling the total lead to 314.

IND vs SA, 2nd Test: Proteas lead by 314 runs after Jansen six-for routs India out for 201

India had another disappointing batting performance at home and third in two Tests against South Africa. On day 3 (Nov 24) of the ongoing second Test in Guwahati, the hosts folded out for merely 201 runs in their first innings and conceded a lead of 288 runs. The only shining point for India was Kuldeep Yadav's stay at the crease. Kuldeep, primarily a spinner, scored on 19 runs but played 134 balls - the highest by any batter for India in this series. The record also shows how proper Indian batters failed to spend time on the crease.<h2>Kuldeep shows the way to bat</h2>Kuldeep's 134-ball stay at the crease showed that it wasn't the pitch but the application by the batters which mattered. Kuldeep is only the second Indian player behind KL Rahul's 119-ball stay in Kolkata to play more than 100 balls in an innings in the ongoing series. Overall, Kuldeep has played 155 balls in the series - the third most behind Washington Sunday (266) and KL Rahul (188). The poor performance has left India on verge losing second home Test series against a top side after losing 0-3 to New Zealand last year which costed them a potential place in the WTC Final.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-rising-star-pakistan-shaheens-celebrate-with-trophy-as-india-s-wait-continues-for-silverware-1763969168954">Asia Cup Rising Star: Pak Shaheens celebrate with trophy but India still waiting</a><h2>Marco Jansen runs riot in Guwahati</h2>Unlike the case in the first Test where South African spinners made Indian batters dance, pacer Marco Jansen took lead in Guwahati. The lanky left-arm bowler, on a traditional Indian pitch, extracted more bounce than any other bowler and claimed six wickets. Jansen had also scored 93 runs in the first innings after coming in to bat at number 9 and played a vital role in taking his team the formidable first innings total of 489. In their pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada's absence, Jansen has surely stepped up and done it in some style.

Kuldeep's 134-ball stay at the crease showed that it wasn't the pitch but the application by the batters which mattered. Kuldeep is only the second Indian player behind KL Rahul's 119-ball stay in Kolkata to play more than 100 balls in an innings in the ongoing series.

India had another disappointing batting performance at home and third in two Tests against South Africa. On day 3 (Nov 24) of the ongoing second Test in Guwahati, the hosts folded out for merely 201 runs in their first innings and conceded a lead of 288 runs. The only shining point for India was Kuldeep Yadav's stay at the crease. Kuldeep, primarily a spinner, scored on 19 runs but played 134 balls - the highest by any batter for India in this series. The record also shows how proper Indian batters failed to spend time on the crease. Kuldeep shows the way to bat Kuldeep's 134-ball stay at the crease showed that it wasn't the pitch but the application by the batters which mattered. Kuldeep is only the second Indian player behind KL Rahul's 119-ball stay in Kolkata to play more than 100 balls in an innings in the ongoing series. Overall, Kuldeep has played 155 balls in the series - the third most behind Washington Sunday (266) and KL Rahul (188). The poor performance has left India on verge losing second home Test series against a top side after losing 0-3 to New Zealand last year which costed them a potential place in the WTC Final. Also Read - Asia Cup Rising Star: Pak Shaheens celebrate with trophy but India still waiting Marco Jansen runs riot in Guwahati Unlike the case in the first Test where South African spinners made Indian batters dance, pacer Marco Jansen took lead in Guwahati. The lanky left-arm bowler, on a traditional Indian pitch, extracted more bounce than any other bowler and claimed six wickets. Jansen had also scored 93 runs in the first innings after coming in to bat at number 9 and played a vital role in taking his team the formidable first innings total of 489. In their pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada's absence, Jansen has surely stepped up and done it in some style.

Kuldeep's 134-ball stay at the crease showed that it wasn't the pitch but the application by the batters which mattered. Kuldeep is only the second Indian player behind KL Rahul's 119-ball stay in Kolkata to play more than 100 balls in an innings in the ongoing series.

IND vs SA: Kuldeep's 134-ball innings in Guwahati is longest by any Indian batter this series

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav took three wickets as India rattled South Africa with late strikes to leave the tourists 247-6 at stumps on the first day of the second Test on Saturday. Tristan Stubbs, who made 49, and skipper Temba Bavuma (41) put on 84 runs for the third wicket after South Africa elected to bat in their bid for a first Test series win in India in 25 years.&nbsp;The World Test champions won the first Test of the two-match series by 30 runs at Kolkata's Eden Gardens.&nbsp;Ravindra Jadeja sent back Bavuma with his left-arm spin in the final session before Kuldeep denied Stubbs his fifty to raise the noise of a large weekend crowd in Guwahati.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-nz-vs-wi-matt-henry-mark-chapman-help-new-zealand-sweep-west-indies-odi-series-1763800558601">NZ vs WI: Matt Henry, Mark Chapman help New Zealand sweep West Indies ODI series</a>&nbsp;Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep (3-48) dismissed Wiaan Mulder for 13 and pace bowler Mohammed Siraj ended Tony de Zorzi's defiance on 28 with the second new ball to further dent South Africa.&nbsp;Left-hander Senuran Muthusamy, on 25, and wicketkeeper-batter Kyle Verreynne, on one, were batting when bad light forced stumps with only 81.5 overs possible, fewer than the usual 90 overs in a day.&nbsp;Aiden Markram, who scored 38, and Ryan Rickelton (35) fell either side of the first break to Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep after an opening partnership of 82.&nbsp;Bavuma and Stubbs, promoted to number three in the batting order, then got to the grind and slowly took the attack to the hosts with regular boundaries as the pair used their feet against the Indian spinners.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-championship-leader-lando-norris-grabs-stressful-las-vegas-pole-1763796498475">Formula One: Championship leader Lando Norris grabs 'stressful' Las Vegas pole</a>&nbsp;Jadeja broke through with his left-arm spin to dismiss in-form Bavuma, who scored the only fifty in the opener in Kolkata, after the batter chipped to mid-off.Stubbs attempted to keep up the tempo as he hit Jadeja for a six but soon Kuldeep had him caught at slip.&nbsp;Play started 30 minutes earlier than usual, with the order of the session breaks reversed, meaning tea came before lunch at India's newest Test venue, which attracted an opening-day crowd of over 15,000 fans.&nbsp;Bumrah had Markram bowled at the stroke of tea when the batsman inside-edged a delivery on to his stumps.&nbsp;Kuldeep struck on the third ball after the break to cut short Rickelton's 82-ball stay.&nbsp;The openers had started cautiously and Markram got off the mark on his 17th ball with a crunching cover drive for four off Bumrah.&nbsp;Bumrah nearly had his revenge next ball only for KL Rahul to drop a regulation chance at second slip. The bowler covered his face in dismay.&nbsp;South Africa, who recently drew 1-1 in Pakistan, are chasing a first series win in India since Hansie Cronje's team triumphed there in 2000.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.



South Africa, who recently drew 1-1 in Pakistan, are chasing a first series win in India since Hansie Cronje's team triumphed there in 2000.

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav took three wickets as India rattled South Africa with late strikes to leave the tourists 247-6 at stumps on the first day of the second Test on Saturday. Tristan Stubbs, who made 49, and skipper Temba Bavuma (41) put on 84 runs for the third wicket after South Africa elected to bat in their bid for a first Test series win in India in 25 years. The World Test champions won the first Test of the two-match series by 30 runs at Kolkata's Eden Gardens. Ravindra Jadeja sent back Bavuma with his left-arm spin in the final session before Kuldeep denied Stubbs his fifty to raise the noise of a large weekend crowd in Guwahati. Also Read - NZ vs WI: Matt Henry, Mark Chapman help New Zealand sweep West Indies ODI series Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep (3-48) dismissed Wiaan Mulder for 13 and pace bowler Mohammed Siraj ended Tony de Zorzi's defiance on 28 with the second new ball to further dent South Africa. Left-hander Senuran Muthusamy, on 25, and wicketkeeper-batter Kyle Verreynne, on one, were batting when bad light forced stumps with only 81.5 overs possible, fewer than the usual 90 overs in a day. Aiden Markram, who scored 38, and Ryan Rickelton (35) fell either side of the first break to Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep after an opening partnership of 82. Bavuma and Stubbs, promoted to number three in the batting order, then got to the grind and slowly took the attack to the hosts with regular boundaries as the pair used their feet against the Indian spinners. Also Read - Formula One: Championship leader Lando Norris grabs 'stressful' Las Vegas pole Jadeja broke through with his left-arm spin to dismiss in-form Bavuma, who scored the only fifty in the opener in Kolkata, after the batter chipped to mid-off. Stubbs attempted to keep up the tempo as he hit Jadeja for a six but soon Kuldeep had him caught at slip. Play started 30 minutes earlier than usual, with the order of the session breaks reversed, meaning tea came before lunch at India's newest Test venue, which attracted an opening-day crowd of over 15,000 fans. Bumrah had Markram bowled at the stroke of tea when the batsman inside-edged a delivery on to his stumps. Kuldeep struck on the third ball after the break to cut short Rickelton's 82-ball stay. The openers had started cautiously and Markram got off the mark on his 17th ball with a crunching cover drive for four off Bumrah. Bumrah nearly had his revenge next ball only for KL Rahul to drop a regulation chance at second slip. The bowler covered his face in dismay. South Africa, who recently drew 1-1 in Pakistan, are chasing a first series win in India since Hansie Cronje's team triumphed there in 2000. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

South Africa, who recently drew 1-1 in Pakistan, are chasing a first series win in India since Hansie Cronje's team triumphed there in 2000.

IND vs SA, 2nd Test: Kuldeep Yadav takes three as hosts restrict Proteas to 247/6 at stumps

From Jasprit Bumrah to Ravindra Jadeja, here's a look at the top five active Indian bowlers with most five-wicket hauls in Tests. This list also includes Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj

From Jasprit Bumrah to Ravindra Jadeja, here's a look at the top five active Indian bowlers with most five-wicket hauls in Tests. This list also includes Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj

Meet top 5 active Indian bowlers with most five-wicket hauls in Tests

Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav has been released from India’s T20I squad in Australia and sent to join the India A team for their second red-ball match against South Africa A, the BCCI announced on Sunday (Nov 2). In a statement, the board said that this decision was taken to give Kuldeep Yadav an important match practice in red-ball cricket before the two-match Test series against South Africa, starting on Nov 14 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-south-africa-women-s-world-cup-2025-final-live-score-updates-live-scorecard-1762085155133">India vs South Africa ICC Women's World Cup 2025 Final: Shafali's 87, Deepti's 58 help India set 299-run target for Proteas</a>&nbsp;“The Indian team management has requested to release Kuldeep Yadav from the ongoing T20I series in Australia to allow him to participate in the India A series against South Africa A at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru", said BCCI.&nbsp;“The decision has been taken to provide Kuldeep with red-ball game time in preparation for the upcoming IDFC First Bank two-match Test series against South Africa", the Board added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 Update The Indian team management has requested to release Kuldeep Yadav from the ongoing T20I series to allow him to participate in the India A series against South Africa A at the BCCI COE. The decision has been taken to provide Kuldeep with red-ball game time in…&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1984991739094909426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kuldeep will now take part in the second four-day game against South Africa A, starting from Nov 6 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-world-cup-final-smriti-mandhana-surpasses-mithali-rajs-record-for-most-runs-in-a-single-edition-1762087935293">ICC Women's World Cup Final: Smriti Mandhana surpasses Mithali Raj's record for most runs in a single edition</a><h2>India squad for 4th&nbsp;and 5th&nbsp;T20I</h2>Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (VC), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar<h2>India A squad for 2nd&nbsp;four-day game</h2>Rishabh Pant (C) (WK), KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Sai Sudharsan (VC), Devdutt Padikkal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Manav Suthar, Khaleel Ahmed, Gurnoor Brar, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep and Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep will now take part in the second four-day game against South Africa A, starting from Nov 6 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. 

Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav has been released from India’s T20I squad in Australia and sent to join the India A team for their second red-ball match against South Africa A, the BCCI announced on Sunday (Nov 2). In a statement, the board said that this decision was taken to give Kuldeep Yadav an important match practice in red-ball cricket before the two-match Test series against South Africa, starting on Nov 14 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Also Read - India vs South Africa ICC Women's World Cup 2025 Final: Shafali's 87, Deepti's 58 help India set 299-run target for Proteas “The Indian team management has requested to release Kuldeep Yadav from the ongoing T20I series in Australia to allow him to participate in the India A series against South Africa A at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru", said BCCI. “The decision has been taken to provide Kuldeep with red-ball game time in preparation for the upcoming IDFC First Bank two-match Test series against South Africa", the Board added.

Kuldeep will now take part in the second four-day game against South Africa A, starting from Nov 6 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

IND vs AUS, T20I series: Kuldeep Yadav released from India's squad. Deets inside

From Mohammed Shami to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers fastest to 150 wickets in ODIs. This list also includes Ajit Agarkar, Zaheer Khan and Anil Kumble

From Mohammed Shami to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers fastest to 150 wickets in ODIs. This list also includes Ajit Agarkar, Zaheer Khan and Anil Kumble

From Mohammed Shami to Kuldeep Yadav, 5 Indian bowlers fastest to 150 wickets in ODIs

India have lost the ODI series in Australia after the hosts won the first two of three ODIs and the last match, a dead rubber, is set to be played on Saturday (Oct 25). After the loss in both the matches, retired Indian spinner Ravi Ashwin questioned the absence of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Ashwin strongly opined that Kuldeep should have been in the playing XI - but the question is who should have been left out for him.<h2>India's Playing XI in first two ODIs vs Australia</h2>India played two spin all-rounders in Axar Patel and Washington Sundar as well as medium-pace all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. There were three outright pacers in Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh to support the bowling.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhirs-hilarious-farewell-chat-with-rohit-sharma-goes-viral-watch-1761305745677">Gautam Gambhir's hilarious 'farewell' chat with Rohit Sharma goes viral</a>Now, the logic behind playing two spin all-rounders was extending depth in batting which India clearly needed, given the performance in the lost matches where they scored 136/9 and 264/9 in two matches, respectively. &nbsp;Removing Reddy or one of the pacers to fit in Kuldeep also doesn't make too much sense in Australia where spinners get little help and there are already two in the team. Also, Kuldeep's white-ball record in SENA countries as well as Australia is not stellar to guarantee a place in playing XI.<h2>How has Kuldeep performed in Australia and SENA countries in ODIs and T20Is</h2>Out of 113 ODI played, last of which came against New Zealand in Champions Trophy 2025 final in Dubai (UAE), Kuldeep has 181 wickets to his name. Out of these matches, he has played 26 in SENA countries and has taken 46 wickets, In Australia though, the spinner has played only three matches and taken only three wickets.As for T20Is, Kuldeep has played only eight of his 47 matches in SENA countries, taking 17 of his 86 wickets. In Australia though, he has taken only three wickets in four matches.While the record is clearly not on Kuldeep's side in Australia, he can feature in the final match of the series as it won't have any impact on the series result.

India played two spin all-rounders to extend depth in batting which India clearly needed, given the performance so far. Removing Reddy or one of the pacers to fit in Kuldeep also doesn't make too much sense in Australia where spinners get little help and there are already two in the team.

India have lost the ODI series in Australia after the hosts won the first two of three ODIs and the last match, a dead rubber, is set to be played on Saturday (Oct 25). After the loss in both the matches, retired Indian spinner Ravi Ashwin questioned the absence of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Ashwin strongly opined that Kuldeep should have been in the playing XI - but the question is who should have been left out for him. India's Playing XI in first two ODIs vs Australia India played two spin all-rounders in Axar Patel and Washington Sundar as well as medium-pace all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. There were three outright pacers in Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh to support the bowling. Also Watch - Gautam Gambhir's hilarious 'farewell' chat with Rohit Sharma goes viral Now, the logic behind playing two spin all-rounders was extending depth in batting which India clearly needed, given the performance in the lost matches where they scored 136/9 and 264/9 in two matches, respectively. Removing Reddy or one of the pacers to fit in Kuldeep also doesn't make too much sense in Australia where spinners get little help and there are already two in the team. Also, Kuldeep's white-ball record in SENA countries as well as Australia is not stellar to guarantee a place in playing XI. How has Kuldeep performed in Australia and SENA countries in ODIs and T20Is Out of 113 ODI played, last of which came against New Zealand in Champions Trophy 2025 final in Dubai (UAE), Kuldeep has 181 wickets to his name. Out of these matches, he has played 26 in SENA countries and has taken 46 wickets, In Australia though, the spinner has played only three matches and taken only three wickets. As for T20Is, Kuldeep has played only eight of his 47 matches in SENA countries, taking 17 of his 86 wickets. In Australia though, he has taken only three wickets in four matches. While the record is clearly not on Kuldeep's side in Australia, he can feature in the final match of the series as it won't have any impact on the series result.

India played two spin all-rounders to extend depth in batting which India clearly needed, given the performance so far. Removing Reddy or one of the pacers to fit in Kuldeep also doesn't make too much sense in Australia where spinners get little help and there are already two in the team.

Ashwin again questions Kuldeep's absence from India playing XI, but does the wrist spinner fit in?

India lost the first of three ODIs against Australia inn Perth as the batters fail on a pacy and bouncy pitch but former spinner Ravi Ashwin has questioned the playing XI as well. &nbsp;India had six bowlers in the ranks out of which three were all-rounders including spinners Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. Ashwin questioned not picking up wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav and said bowling can't be ignored to extend batting. Indian batters could not handle pitch along with multiple rain delays and could manage just 136/9 in what eventually became a 26-over per side contest.<h2>Ashwin questions no picking up Kuldeep in Perth</h2>“I can understand why they're playing two spinners in the game along with Nitish Reddy, they want the batting depth because both Washington and Axar can bat. But man, at least give some attention to the bowling too. On these big grounds, if Kuldeep can't bowl with a lot of freedom, where will he bowl then? And there's going to be over spin which will help him get bounce as well,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/milestone-alert-deepti-sharma-becomes-first-indian-and-fourth-overall-in-wodis-to-achieve-this-record-1760945687751">Deepti becomes first Indian and fourth overall in WODIs to achieve THIS record</a>Kuldeep, who made his debut for India in 2016, has not ever been able to cement his place in any of the format, often losing to all-rounder for batting depth in the playing XI.<h2>India fail miserably in Perth</h2>After the failure in Perth game which was marred by multiple rain breaks, Indian team would be hoping to regroup before the second ODI on October 23 in Adelaide. None of the Indian batters could cross 20-run mark in Perth barring Axar Patel (31) and KL Rahul (38), showing the pitch was difficult for everyone, not just Rohit and Kohli. Australia, however, played like the home team's supposed to, chasing the DLS adjusted target of 131 in 21.1 runs out 26 over available.

Kuldeep, who made his debut for India in 2016, has not ever been able to cement his place in any of the format, often losing to all-rounder for batting depth in the playing XI.

India lost the first of three ODIs against Australia inn Perth as the batters fail on a pacy and bouncy pitch but former spinner Ravi Ashwin has questioned the playing XI as well. India had six bowlers in the ranks out of which three were all-rounders including spinners Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. Ashwin questioned not picking up wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav and said bowling can't be ignored to extend batting. Indian batters could not handle pitch along with multiple rain delays and could manage just 136/9 in what eventually became a 26-over per side contest. Ashwin questions no picking up Kuldeep in Perth “I can understand why they're playing two spinners in the game along with Nitish Reddy, they want the batting depth because both Washington and Axar can bat. But man, at least give some attention to the bowling too. On these big grounds, if Kuldeep can't bowl with a lot of freedom, where will he bowl then? And there's going to be over spin which will help him get bounce as well,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. Also Read - Deepti becomes first Indian and fourth overall in WODIs to achieve THIS record Kuldeep, who made his debut for India in 2016, has not ever been able to cement his place in any of the format, often losing to all-rounder for batting depth in the playing XI. India fail miserably in Perth After the failure in Perth game which was marred by multiple rain breaks, Indian team would be hoping to regroup before the second ODI on October 23 in Adelaide. None of the Indian batters could cross 20-run mark in Perth barring Axar Patel (31) and KL Rahul (38), showing the pitch was difficult for everyone, not just Rohit and Kohli. Australia, however, played like the home team's supposed to, chasing the DLS adjusted target of 131 in 21.1 runs out 26 over available.

Kuldeep, who made his debut for India in 2016, has not ever been able to cement his place in any of the format, often losing to all-rounder for batting depth in the playing XI.

'Where will he bowl...,' Ashwin questions India not selecting Kuldeep in Perth ODI

India ended day 3 (Oct 12) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, having enforced the follow-on against West Indies after bowling them out for 248. Kuldeep Yadav picked up his fifth five-wicket haul, with Jadeja chipping in with three wickets. For the West Indies, Alick Athanaze top-scored with 41, while Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Shai Hope contributed useful innings of 34 and 36, respectively. In their second innings, West Indies showed great fightback and spirit, ending 173/2 by the close of play, still trailing India by 97 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;West Indies batters Shai Hope and left-handed opener John Campbell have added 138 runs for the third wicket in the second innings to keep their team in the hunt. Both players have scored half-centuries and are currently unbeaten at the crease.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-aus-w-smriti-mandhana-breaks-multiple-records-hits-first-100-partnership-with-pratika-rawal-1760271188274">Ind-W vs Aus-W: Smriti Mandhana breaks multiple records, hits first 100+ partnership with Pratika Rawal</a><h2>Spinners take eight wickets in first innings</h2>Kuldeep Yadav once again troubled the West Indies with his spin and drift, picking up five wickets, including important ones like Alick Athanaze, Shai Hope and Tevin Imlach. Ravindra Jadeja supported well with three wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj bowled with control, keeping the runs in check.&nbsp;West Indies showed strong resistance. Campbell played some aggressive shots, while Hope stayed solid at the crease. Their partnership frustrated India, which had hoped to finish the innings quickly. The duo survived both spin and pace, showing patience and smart shot selection.&nbsp;Earlier, India’s batters had built a strong total. Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal scored centuries, and Sai Sudharsan added 87 runs. Despite the West Indies’ fightback, India remain in control with a big first-innings lead and enough time to push for a win.&nbsp;On crucial day four, India will aim to break the partnership between John Campbell (87) and Shai Hope (66), who are unbeaten at 138 runs, and extend their lead. The West Indies will look to bat for a long time and frustrate the home team in an attempt to save the match.&nbsp;

 In their second innings, West Indies showed great fightback and spirit, ending 173/2 by the close of play, still trailing India by 97 runs. West Indies batters Shai Hope and left-handed opener John Campbell have added 138 runs for the third wicket

India ended day 3 (Oct 12) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, having enforced the follow-on against West Indies after bowling them out for 248. Kuldeep Yadav picked up his fifth five-wicket haul, with Jadeja chipping in with three wickets. For the West Indies, Alick Athanaze top-scored with 41, while Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Shai Hope contributed useful innings of 34 and 36, respectively. In their second innings, West Indies showed great fightback and spirit, ending 173/2 by the close of play, still trailing India by 97 runs. West Indies batters Shai Hope and left-handed opener John Campbell have added 138 runs for the third wicket in the second innings to keep their team in the hunt. Both players have scored half-centuries and are currently unbeaten at the crease. Also read | Ind-W vs Aus-W: Smriti Mandhana breaks multiple records, hits first 100+ partnership with Pratika Rawal Spinners take eight wickets in first innings Kuldeep Yadav once again troubled the West Indies with his spin and drift, picking up five wickets, including important ones like Alick Athanaze, Shai Hope and Tevin Imlach. Ravindra Jadeja supported well with three wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj bowled with control, keeping the runs in check. West Indies showed strong resistance. Campbell played some aggressive shots, while Hope stayed solid at the crease. Their partnership frustrated India, which had hoped to finish the innings quickly. The duo survived both spin and pace, showing patience and smart shot selection. Earlier, India’s batters had built a strong total. Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal scored centuries, and Sai Sudharsan added 87 runs. Despite the West Indies’ fightback, India remain in control with a big first-innings lead and enough time to push for a win. On crucial day four, India will aim to break the partnership between John Campbell (87) and Shai Hope (66), who are unbeaten at 138 runs, and extend their lead. The West Indies will look to bat for a long time and frustrate the home team in an attempt to save the match.

&nbsp;In their second innings, West Indies showed great fightback and spirit, ending 173/2 by the close of play, still trailing India by 97 runs. West Indies batters Shai Hope and left-handed opener John Campbell have added 138 runs for the third wicket

Ind vs WI, 2nd Test: Kuldeep’s five-wicket haul helps India enforce follow-on; West Indies fight back in second innings

From Jasprit Bumrah to Kuldeep Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers fastest to 100 wickets in ODIs. This list also includes Mohammed Shami, Irfan Pathan and Yuzvendra Chahal

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Kuldeep Yadav has always been a curious case in the Indian cricket team, especially in Tests. The left-arm wrist spinner made his debut back in March 2017 against Australia but has managed to play just 13 more Tests since then including the ongoing first Test against West Indies. India's current bowling coach Morne Morkel, who retired in 2018, has played more Tests (14) since Kuldeep's debut month. The spinner last turned up for India in whites against New Zealand nearly an year ago before being overlooked in Australia and England. Kuldeep, however, celebrated his return to Test cricket with style with a wicket on a fairytale delivery.<h2>Kuldeep takes wicket on unplayable ball on return to Test cricket</h2>Skipper Shubman Gill introduced Kuldeep Yadav into the attack just before lunch on day 1 (Oct 2) of the first Test against West Indies in Ahmedabad. The conditions were friendly to pace bowling and West Indies were already four wickets down. A 38-run partnership for the fifth wicket was slowly putting West Indies into slight comfort before Kuldeep worked his magic.Also Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-1st-test-red-ball-bumrah-leaves-batters-hanging-dry-with-searing-yorkers-in-cloudy-ahmedabad-watch-1759393978136">IND vs WI, 1st Test: Red-ball Bumrah leaves batters hanging dry with searing yorkers in cloudy Ahmedabad</a>The spinner bowled a loopy ball outside off to right-hand batter Shai Hope and the ball turned into him after being pitched onto a foot-mark. It went through Hope's bat and pad gap to hit the top of off stump and Kuldeep was ecstatic with the wicket. Have a look at the ball below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Welcome back to Test cricket, <a href="https://twitter.com/imkuldeep18?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imkuldeep18</a>! 💙 His first Test since October 2024 &amp; Kuldeep cleans up Shai Hope just before Lunch! ☝ 🍽 LUNCH | WI 90/5 (23.2) Catch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/Ju76dqhTdq">https://t.co/Ju76dqhTdq</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> 1st Test, Day 1 👉 LIVE NOW on Star Sports &amp; JioHotstar <a href="https://t.co/Qc7e3CIIis">pic.twitter.com/Qc7e3CIIis</a>&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1973632353663631657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Bumrah creates history as West Indies fold out for 162</h2>West Indies were bowled out a paltry 162 in the first innings after electing to bat first post winning the toss. Mohammed Siraj was pick of the Indian bowlers with the figures of 4/40 but it was Bumrah who impressed with his 3/42 including two wickets on searing yorkers. With the wickets, Bumrah became the joint-fastest Indian pacer to take 50 Test wickets at home along with Javagal Srinath - both the bowlers took 24 innings to reach the milestone.

The spinner last turned up for India in whites against New Zealand nearly an year ago before being overlooked in Australia and England. Kuldeep, however, celebrated his return to Test cricket with style with a wicket on a fairytale delivery.

Kuldeep Yadav has always been a curious case in the Indian cricket team, especially in Tests. The left-arm wrist spinner made his debut back in March 2017 against Australia but has managed to play just 13 more Tests since then including the ongoing first Test against West Indies. India's current bowling coach Morne Morkel, who retired in 2018, has played more Tests (14) since Kuldeep's debut month. The spinner last turned up for India in whites against New Zealand nearly an year ago before being overlooked in Australia and England. Kuldeep, however, celebrated his return to Test cricket with style with a wicket on a fairytale delivery. Kuldeep takes wicket on unplayable ball on return to Test cricket Skipper Shubman Gill introduced Kuldeep Yadav into the attack just before lunch on day 1 (Oct 2) of the first Test against West Indies in Ahmedabad. The conditions were friendly to pace bowling and West Indies were already four wickets down. A 38-run partnership for the fifth wicket was slowly putting West Indies into slight comfort before Kuldeep worked his magic. Also Watch: IND vs WI, 1st Test: Red-ball Bumrah leaves batters hanging dry with searing yorkers in cloudy Ahmedabad The spinner bowled a loopy ball outside off to right-hand batter Shai Hope and the ball turned into him after being pitched onto a foot-mark. It went through Hope's bat and pad gap to hit the top of off stump and Kuldeep was ecstatic with the wicket. Have a look at the ball below:

The spinner last turned up for India in whites against New Zealand nearly an year ago before being overlooked in Australia and England. Kuldeep, however, celebrated his return to Test cricket with style with a wicket on a fairytale delivery.

Kuldeep, with less Tests than India bowling coach Morkel since debut, celebrates return to red-ball with fairytale wicket

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