Kartik questions Kuldeep’s path to spin leadership as India faces selection crossroads
Murali Kartik says Kuldeep Yadav’s chances of succeeding Ravindra Jadeja are ‘very, very difficult’ due to recent omissions, despite strong performance metrics under previous leadership structures.
Former India spinner Murali Kartik has cast doubt on Kuldeep Yadav’s prospects of becoming India’s next primary spin leader, describing the transition as exceptionally challenging. The assessment comes as the national team navigates a period of structural change, with veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s career entering its twilight phase and creating a vacuum in the red-ball squad.
Kartik acknowledged Yadav’s status as a proven match-winner but pointed to a significant decline in selection opportunities under current leadership arrangements. He highlighted the bowler’s omission from the squad during the recent five-Test series in England, a period where his absence was frequently noted in public discourse. This lack of run in the side contrasts sharply with his previous tenure under the Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid leadership structure, which provided Yadav with consistent selection.
The upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka is viewed by Yadav as a critical juncture to re-establish his position in India’s plans. With the team undergoing a transition, Yadav sees this series as a vital opportunity to strengthen his case for a permanent role in the red-ball setup, particularly as the management seeks to identify the next generation of spinners to support the ageing Jadeja.
Statistical records indicate Yadav has maintained high performance levels across different captaincies. Under Rohit Sharma, Yadav played 62 matches, taking 116 wickets at an average of 20.92. During the Virat Kohli era, he claimed 140 wickets in 75 matches at an average of 25.34. Even under Shubman Gill, he took 23 wickets in nine matches at an average of 27.65, suggesting his exclusion is not a reflection of diminished skill but rather fluctuating team policies.
In Test cricket specifically, Yadav has taken 79 wickets in 18 matches at an average of 22.35, with best figures of 5/40 in an innings and 8/113 in a match. His limited-overs record is equally robust, with 194 wickets in 121 ODIs and 95 wickets in 54 T20Is. Despite these figures, Kartim noted that the current environment has not afforded Yadav the same platform, raising questions about whether he can still secure the leadership role in spin given the recent lack of opportunities.
