Kuldeep Yadav: Ashwin’s zero-confidence claim ignites Gambhir row. Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticized the team management for repeatedly ignoring left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, saying their lack of faith in him is “absolutely zero.” Kuldeep was not selected for the entire ODI series against England, including the third match at Lord’s, despite Jasprit Bumrah being unavailable. Since Gautam Gambhir became head coach in July 2024, India have played 104 international matches but Kuldeep has only featured in 38.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said that Kuldeep should stop waiting for chances that may never come. “He should have packed his bags and come,” Ashwin remarked, echoing sentiments shared by former cricketer Mohammad Kaif. He argued that the spinner’s absence, even when conditions suited him, shows that the team management has no confidence in Kuldeep Yadav. Ashwin pointed out that Kuldeep has taken around 170 wickets in 120 matches, calling him better than Australia’s Adam Zampa.
Ashwin admitted that he previously advised Kuldeep to stay with the squad and improve his batting, but the selection at Lord’s changed his mind. “If you don’t need batting at number eight and still don’t pick Kuldeep, it means management’s confidence in him is zero,” he said. He questioned what direction Kuldeep’s career can now take.
Kuldeep last played for India in a home ODI series against Afghanistan in June 2024, featuring in just one match. He also had a poor ODI series against New Zealand and played only one game during India’s T20 World Cup campaign. Ashwin said every dressing room has favorites, but Kuldeep’s situation is “very bizarre.” The constant neglect under head coach Gautam Gambhir has now sparked a major debate about Kuldeep’s future in Indian cricket.