When Kuldeep Yadav got to play in the 1st Test vs Bangladesh, it was his first Test since February last year. After getting to play in whites after almost 2 years, Kuldeep was not about to let this opportunity go.??
First, the 28-year-old made a crucial 40 to help India post a 400-plus score. Then he did what he did best, leave the opposition dancing to his tune as he spun a web of doom.
Kuldeep was instrumental in destroying Bangladesh's lower order to ensure they got nowhere close to India's 404. The left-arm spinner finished with 5/40.?
Bangladesh were bundled out for 150, giving India a 254-run lead. India however did not opt for the follow-on and decided to bat Bangladesh out of the game.?
Kuldeep was simply unplayable and his destruction saw Bangladesh slip from 75/3 to their final score. Five out of the seven wickets to fall were taken by him. Mushfiqur, Shakib, Nurul, Ebadot and Taijul were his victims.?
Kuldeep is clearly sending a message to the selectors. The message is to make him a spin option. With the likes of Ashwin and Jadeja in the twilight of their careers, Kuldeep along with Axar are the future of our spin outfit, at least in this format.?
Kuldeep knows more such performances are needed to maintain a Test place. So hopefully this is just the first of many. ?????