'Can't believe he is not first choice': Former captain slams management for benching Kuldeep

India’s decision to leave out Kuldeep Yadav from their playing XI in the last two T20Is against West Indies has raised eyebrows, with former Australia captain Michael Clarke questioning the team management’s reluctance to make the wrist-spinner a first-choice option. Clarke believes Kuldeep’s wicket-taking ability makes him an invaluable asset, particularly in a format where teams often prioritise containing runs over dismissing opposition batters. The debate comes after India’s bowling attack struggled to contain Shai Hope and his men in the fourth T20I, with West Indies smashing their way to a formidable 247/3. India were left with a daunting chase and spent much of their innings trying to keep pace with the required run rate rather than dictating terms. Kuldeep, who returned figures of 2/33 in the series opener, was left out of the playing XI after an expensive outing in Ranchi, where he conceded 53 runs for one wicket as West Indies chased down a record target of 250. India instead opted for all-rounder Naman Dhir as their second spin option alongside Axar Patel, preferring a pace-heavy combination.

'Can't believe he is not their first choice spinner'

Speaking on his Beyond23 Cricket Podcast, Clarke questioned the decision to sideline Kuldeep, stressing that teams should focus on taking wickets rather than simply allowing opposition batters to accumulate runs. "I have made my point clear about Kuldeep Yadav several times. I cannot believe he's not their first-choice spinner. He's a wicket-taker, and it doesn't matter the format; you are looking to bowl the opposition out. Too many captains play by the rules of the game in T20s and ODIs. They just say Let the opposition get whatever they do, and we will chase, rather than looking to bowl the opposition out," Clarke said.

Naman Dhir Delivers, but Kuldeep's Absence Sparks Debate

While Clarke questioned India's selection strategy, Naman has made a useful contribution with the ball in the series. The all-rounder has taken five wickets in four matches at an average of 22.80, providing the team with another option in the spin department. However, Kuldeep's experience and ability to break partnerships remain significant considerations. The left-arm wrist-spinner has enjoyed a productive white-ball run against West Indies, claiming 10 wickets across five matches, including seven wickets in three ODIs, with a four-wicket haul.

Kuldeep Yadav's T20I Numbers

Kuldeep has established himself as one of India's most effective wicket-taking spinners in T20 internationals. In 56 T20Is, he has claimed 98 wickets at an average of 14.20 and an economy rate of 7.10. His tally includes three four-wicket hauls and two five-wicket hauls, with best figures of 5/17. His numbers in 2026, however, have been less dominant. Across six T20Is this year, Kuldeep has taken eight wickets at an average of 25.75 and an economy rate of 9.36, with best figures of 2/33.