Where is Kuldeep Yadav? This question can be approached in two distinct manners: a succinct response and a more detailed explanation. The brief answer is straightforward: Kuldeep Yadav is currently at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. However, the comprehensive response is more complex and multifaceted.

Kuldeep Yadav is a cricketer whose position is often precarious. This is particularly notable given that he has been one of India's most effective bowlers across all formats during the 2023-24 season. Despite this, he was the first spinner to be excluded from the playing XI following a lackluster performance in the initial Test against New Zealand. His frequent struggles with unfortunate injuries further complicate his situation.

Just when it seemed that Kuldeep had secured his place as a regular member of India's XI in all formats, a surprising announcement from the BCCI on October 25 changed the narrative. His name was conspicuously absent from the squads released that day. While it was anticipated that he would not participate in the T20Is in South Africa and would instead be considered for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, his omission from the 18-member Test squad was unexpected.

His absence was noted in a footnote that lacked a positive tone. The BCCI stated, "Kuldeep Yadav was unavailable for selection for the tour of Australia since he has been referred to the BCCI Centre of Excellence after the end of the ongoing Test series against New Zealand for long-term resolution of his chronic left groin issue."

The medical update included some alarming terminology. The BCCI expressed the need for a "long-term resolution" of his "chronic left groin issue." It was clear that Kuldeep would be sidelined for an extended period, which indeed came to pass. He was unable to participate in the Ranji Trophy, was excluded from the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20s, and was subsequently ruled out of the Vijay Hazare domestic one-dayers.

His absence was significantly noted in Australia. Following Ravichandran Ashwin's choice to retire during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India found itself without a true wicket-taking spinner.

Deep Dasgupta, the former Indian wicket-keeper, expressed that Kuldeep Yadav ought to have been included in the squad. “India required Kuldeep Yadav to dismiss the tailenders promptly. A wrist spinner offers reassurance to the captain,” he remarked.

Will Kuldeep Yadav play in the Champions Trophy?

Let us now turn our attention to the future. The conclusion of BGT leaves us pondering what lies ahead. The Champions Trophy is on the horizon. India's matches will take place in the UAE, where the pitches tend to be slower and the grounds larger, necessitating the presence of skilled spinners during the middle overs. What are the prospects for Kuldeep's participation in this tournament? This leads us back to the fundamental inquiry: Where is Kuldeep Yadav?

It was only in December of the previous year that Kuldeep began sharing updates regarding his fitness on social media. For a duration of two and a half months, the left-arm spinner, who holds the distinction of being the only Indian to achieve two ODI hat-tricks, was unable to bowl. His time at the National Cricket Academy was primarily devoted to gym workouts and various fitness exercises.

In the final week of December, Kuldeep commenced his bowling practice. Although his progress was gradual, Kuldeep, who is accustomed to overcoming injuries and making comebacks, managed to handle the situation with composure.

However, a significant concern remains. Kuldeep has not yet achieved match fitness, and the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is scheduled to convene in two days to finalize India's squads for the limited-overs series against England and the Champions Trophy. Should the selectors choose to include him, it would represent a considerable leap of faith.

If he is found to be unfit, this could potentially pave the way for Ravindra Jadeja's inclusion. Axar Patel has been the favoured left-arm spinner during the Sri Lanka series and has performed admirably. The chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, previously indicated that Jadeja was ‘rested’. Nevertheless, if Kuldeep is unable to demonstrate fitness, the selectors may have to reconsider Jadeja or acknowledge Varun Chakravarty for his impressive performances in T20 internationals.

Read Also: Clarke on Kohli's Skills: "He Could Achieve a Double Hundred Anytime"

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!