India’s disappointing performance in the first Test against England at Headingley, culminating in a five-wicket loss, has prompted calls for significant changes in the team’s composition for the second match. Weak bowling and fielding were pinpointed as primary causes of the defeat. However, head coach Gautam Gambhir defended the bowlers, citing the inexperience of most, barring Bumrah and Siraj, and suggesting that they will improve.
Gambhir also backed Shardul Thakur. Shardul, who was playing his first Test since December 2023, wasn’t utilized much for fast bowling and also underperformed with the bat. There were questions about why he was preferred over a specialist bowler. Despite his two wickets on the fifth day, his bowling lacked the necessary edge. He and Prasidh Krishna delivered several loose deliveries, easing the pressure on England’s batsmen.
Dilip Vengsarkar, a former Indian captain, has recommended Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion, with either Shardul or Prasidh making way. Sanjay Manjrekar agreed, stating that Shardul Thakur should be replaced by Kuldeep. Manjrekar feels this change is vital, possibly reducing the number of fast bowlers to accommodate Kuldeep in the playing eleven. After the match, Gambhir defended the captain’s decisions regarding Shardul, explaining Jadeja’s role in controlling the run rate, which facilitated the use of three fast bowlers. He clarified that the captain’s choices are often tactical, influenced by pitch conditions.