Monty Panesar Urges India to Play Kuldeep Yadav in Birmingham Test

In a strategic shake-up suggestion, former England cricketer Monty Panesar has called for Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion in India's line-up for the second Test against England in Birmingham. Panesar advised replacing seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur with the left-arm wrist-spinner, emphasizing Yadav's potential impact on Edgbaston's spin-conducive pitch.

Highlighting statistics that favor Yadav, who has claimed 56 wickets in 13 Tests, Panesar argued that India's success could hinge on employing him as the main attacking option. The spinner's ability to deliver challenging lines, even on less spin-friendly tracks, was showcased during the IPL.

Panesar further commented on the team's balance, suggesting maintaining Jadeja in a defensive role while leveraging Yadav's aggressive style. The combination, according to Panesar, could offer India a strategic edge, though it challenges the team's typical preference for defensive spin tactics.

(With inputs from agencies.)