Former England fast bowler Steve Harmison suggests India could bring spinner Kuldeep Yadav into their playing XI for the upcoming 4th Test against England in Manchester.
Old Trafford Pitch: A Spinner’s Friend?
The Old Trafford pitch is expected to offer significant assistance to spinners as the match progresses. This prediction has led former England pacer Steve Harmison to advocate for Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in India’s lineup for the crucial 4th Test.
Harmison highlighted that while the wicket might not provide much bounce for Kuldeep, it will certainly aid spin as the five-day encounter unfolds. Given that the previous three Tests have all gone deep into the fifth day, he believes India should seriously consider fielding a second or even a third spinner.
The Big Selection Headache
While adding Kuldeep seems like a strong tactical move, it presents a significant dilemma for India’s well-balanced side. The challenge lies in finding a spot for him without disrupting the existing equilibrium.
Harmison pointed out that dropping key all-rounders like Washington Sundar or Ravindra Jadeja would be an incredibly tough call for the team management. He mused on the possibility of playing three spinners, acknowledging it would be a “big call,” particularly when considering the broader team composition and pace attack.
“Picking Kuldeep can be the right move, but how would you fit him in? There may have to be a tough decision — is it Sundar who misses out? I wouldn’t want to be the one making that call,” Harmison stated.
Echoes of Edgbaston and Lord’s
Harmison anticipates that conditions at Old Trafford will largely mirror those seen at Edgbaston and Lord’s. He expects a low-scoring affair, with the pitch lacking in pace and bounce, but progressively breaking up as the match wears on.
Manchester’s notoriously unpredictable weather also plays a role in his assessment. “If it’s going to rain anywhere in England, and it hasn’t rained here in almost three months, it’ll be in Manchester. If there’s any venue where you might consider playing two spinners or even three spinners, it’s Manchester,” he added.
Contrasting Strategies
While India might heavily weigh a spin-heavy option, Harmison doesn’t expect England to follow suit. Despite having spin options like Liam Dawson, he believes the hosts will stick to their preferred combination.
Ultimately, he envisions another Test match where runs might be hard to come by, setting the stage for a gritty and closely contested battle.
- Steve Harmison suggests Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion for the 4th Test at Old Trafford.
- The Manchester pitch is expected to favor spinners as the match progresses.
- India faces a tough selection choice, potentially needing to drop either Washington Sundar or Ravindra Jadeja to accommodate Kuldeep.
- Conditions are anticipated to be similar to previous low-scoring Tests at Edgbaston and Lord’s.
The upcoming Test promises intriguing tactical battles as both teams aim to gain a crucial advantage in the series.
