Due to a safety-first strategy, India dropped Kuldeep Yadav for the fourth India vs England Test in favor of debutant Anshul Kamboj. The team had to select a hitter with depth because of injuries to important bowlers, according to The Times of India. Many criticized the decision, believing that Kuldeep’s omission was a missed opportunity in such a crucial game.
[REPORT] India Drops Kuldeep for 4th Test as Kamboj Gets Surprise Call
In a surprising move ahead of the India vs England fourth Test, India decided to leave out Kuldeep Yadav and hand a debut to Anshul Kamboj.
Kuldeep was very much in the mix for selection, especially with his sharp performances in the nets and his reputation as a match-winner with the ball. But the team management went for a safety-first approach. They wanted someone who could also contribute with the bat and provide balance to a side hit by injuries.
With Nitish Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, and Akash Deep all ruled out, the selectors needed someone reliable.
Anshul Kamboj, known for his discipline and ability to swing the ball, got the nod. Strengthening the lower order and reducing the risks associated with a weak batting lineup were the goals during the India vs England game.
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[TRENDING] Social Media Reacted Strongly to Kuldeep’s Exclusion
The exclusion of Kuldeep angered a lot of supporters and former players. Social media erupted in reactions.
One user posted, “India ignoring a guy with a test bowling average of 22. I think the only future Gambhir and co see for Kuldeep Yadav is as a retired spinning Youtuber. #INDvsENG”
India ignoring a guy with a test bowling average of 22.
I think the only future Gambhir and co see for Kuldeep Yadav is as a retired spinning Youtuber.#INDvsENG— Sorabh Pant (@hankypanty) July 25, 2025
Another user commented, “Kuldeep Yadav should have been in the team from 1st test itself. Bowlers win matches and in current test, his exclusion is unjustified. Six bowlers are already playing, why he could not play in place of Shardul?”
Kuldeep Yadav should have been in the team from 1st test itself. Bowlers win matches and in current test, his exclusion is unjustified. Six bowlers are already playing, why he could not play in place of Shardul?
— GIRISH MISHRA🇮🇳 (@bakharia) July 26, 2025
[UPDATE] Why India Played It Safe This Time
The call to go with Kamboj was not made in isolation. India was already down key players due to injuries. That forced the team to rethink its structure for the India vs England fourth Test.
Shardul Thakur was already in the XI for his batting ability. The management did not want two tail-end bowlers in a must-win game. That was the main reason behind choosing Kamboj over Kuldeep.
At Old Trafford, the pitch also had an impact. India believed that they needed pace options with some batting ability rather than an all-out spinner who could get little help, and it was anticipated that it would help seamers more than spinners.
The Opinion of Amit Mishra
Even though the team’s thinking makes sense, it does raise concerns to leave out a player like Kuldeep. When given the chance, he has frequently delivered, adds variation, and spins the ball on any surface.
Sometimes playing it safe comes at the cost of winning moments. Kuldeep might not bat much, but he can get you wickets that change the game. Kamboj may turn out to be a great pick, but ignoring someone like Kuldeep always feels like a bit of a gamble.
In the end, it’s about trust and vision. Whether this decision works or not, it has already sparked debate about how India balances safety and intent in big matches like India vs England.
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