India are likely to play the second Test against England at Edgbaston without pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, as part of a carefully managed workload plan. This decision has sparked debate about what India’s best bowling attack looks like in Bumrah’s absence — and most experts agree that Kuldeep Yadav must be part of it.
Bumrah’s Potential Absence at Edgbaston
Bumrah bowled 44 taxing overs in the series opener at Headingley and was India’s most threatening bowler by a distance. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and the selectors have already made it clear that Bumrah will not play all five Tests in this series. The team wants him fresh for the crucial third match at Lord’s, which makes Edgbaston a likely candidate for rest.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Inclusion is Crucial
With Bumrah absent, India will need a bowler who can turn the game single-handedly. Kuldeep Yadav fits that bill. His left-arm wrist-spin offers variation and wicket-taking potential, which India desperately needs if they hope to claim 20 wickets. Despite good batting performances at Headingley, the inability to dismiss England in the fourth innings proved costly.
While Ravindra Jadeja can contain runs and bowl long spells, Kuldeep brings attacking flair that could help India push for a win in Bumrah’s absence.
Who Partners Kuldeep in the Attack?
Without Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj becomes the senior pacer. However, he has only 102 wickets in 37 Tests and hasn’t yet consistently delivered as the lead bowler. Prasidh Krishna has raw pace but has struggled with accuracy and injuries. His performance in the first Test was expensive, but the management may continue to invest in him.
Akash Deep, who missed out on the Australia tour due to a back issue, is likely to be considered. He’s sharp, skiddy, and known to generate movement — an ideal partner for Siraj with the new ball.
Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy are options, but neither has made a compelling case recently. Reddy is still gaining experience, while Shardul has been inconsistent.
A Balanced Bowling Unit
India’s best Bumrah-less attack could be a four-pronged unit comprising Siraj, Prasidh, Akash Deep, and Kuldeep Yadav, with Jadeja providing the all-round balance. Despite Kuldeep and Jadeja both being left-arm bowlers, their differing styles complement each other. Jadeja is fast and tight, while Kuldeep is slower through the air and can be deceptive.
A Chance for New Heroes to Rise
England have chased down targets of 378 and 371 against India in the past three years. With Bumrah watching from the dugout this time, India will have to dig deep. But it also opens the door for new heroes to step up — and for bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav or Akash Deep to make a mark in the toughest of conditions.
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