Team India is meticulously ensuring its non-playing squad members – Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, and Abhimanyu Easwaran – remain match-ready and motivated during the ongoing tour of England.
Life on the Sidelines
For any professional athlete, being part of a squad but not making the playing XI can be a challenging experience. This is the reality for spinner Kuldeep Yadav, pacer Arshdeep Singh, and batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran, who are constant companions on India’s current tour of England but are yet to feature in a game.
Their roles often involve bowling in the nets to the main players on non-match days. During Test matches, they can be seen running sprint drills during breaks or carrying drinks and gloves onto the field. It’s an important, yet often overlooked, contribution that can feel like being in a perpetual “waiting room.”
Kuldeep Yadav’s Evolution
For Kuldeep Yadav, this tour is a stark contrast to his last Test outing at Lord’s in 2018. Then, as a 23-year-old wrist spinner, he struggled, conceding 44 runs in nine overs without a wicket in a match India lost heavily.
Now, at 30, Kuldeep brings a renewed sense of wisdom and control to his bowling. He had previously stated his improved ability to “control the game, set up batsmen and approach a particular situation,” along with better reading of batsmen and field settings.
Training Beyond the Spotlight
Even without a game, these players maintain a rigorous training schedule. They frequently bowl to the main squad members, including captain Shubman Gill, especially on days when the primary pacers are resting. This offers valuable practice for both the playing XI and the reserve players themselves.
The support staff plays a crucial role in keeping them engaged and sharp. Bowling coach Morne Morkel spends significant time with Kuldeep and Arshdeep, refining their line and length. Batting coach Shitanshu Kotak also ensures non-playing batsmen like Easwaran get dedicated practice sessions, cheering on every well-timed shot.
Why Squad Depth Matters
Team India’s assistant coach, Ryan Ten Doeschate, emphasizes the importance of this approach with their larger 18-member squad. “For us, it is about giving as much attention and care to the guys who aren’t playing and making sure they get quality practice between Tests,” he explained.
Beyond physical readiness, open communication is key. The coaching staff talks to these players about team combinations, ensuring they understand decisions and remain in the right frame of mind. This comprehensive care aims to keep everyone physically, technically, and mentally prepared for any opportunity that might arise due to injuries or strategic changes.
The Mental Game of Waiting
Cricket often involves long periods of waiting, even for those in the playing XI. But for the “extras,” this wait can stretch for years, demanding immense mental resilience. It’s a tough ask to be sidelined for extended periods and then expected to step onto the field and perform instantly.
Moments like head coach Gautam Gambhir sitting with Kuldeep Yadav after a net session, as observed recently, highlight the team’s commitment to making every player feel valued and part of the unit. This constant engagement is vital to battle the boredom and anxiety that can accompany a prolonged wait for a chance.
- Team India prioritizes keeping all 18 squad members match-ready, not just the playing XI.
- Non-playing members like Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, and Abhimanyu Easwaran actively participate in net sessions.
- The coaching staff provides dedicated attention and training to ensure physical and mental preparedness.
- Open communication about selection decisions helps maintain morale and a positive team environment.
This proactive strategy is crucial for a long tour, ensuring the squad remains robust and adaptable for any scenario.
