Dasgupta Demands Kuldeep's Inclusion as India Gears Up for Sri Lanka Test Battle

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta has thrown his strong support behind Kuldeep Yadav, insisting the left-arm wrist-spinner must be in India's playing XI for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. The crucial series, which is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle, kicks off on August 15 in Galle, with pitches traditionally known to heavily favor spin. Dasgupta highlighted Kuldeep's 'unique skill set' as indispensable for these spin-friendly conditions, a sentiment gaining traction as Team India prepares for a challenging tour. India, under captain Shubman Gill, faces significant pressure after a mixed WTC campaign, needing strong performances to improve their standing. The squad already features a formidable spin attack with the return of veteran Ravindra Jadeja, alongside emerging talents Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain. Dasgupta's remarks underscore a broader debate about India's spin combination, especially considering Kuldeep's recent strong form for Yorkshire in England's Royal One-Day Cup, where he picked up eight wickets in four matches, and his history of being overlooked despite consistent performances. As Team India arrives in Sri Lanka on August 4 for a revised three-day warm-up match starting August 7, all eyes will be on Captain Gill and Head Coach Gautam Gambhir to finalize the playing XI. The decision on whether to field three specialist spinners, including Kuldeep, will be critical on the turning tracks of Galle and later the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo. This series is not just about individual brilliance but about India finding the right balance to secure vital WTC points and re-establish their dominance in Test cricket.