3 Key Changes India Should Consider for the 2nd Test vs. England

1. Kuldeep Yadav for Shardul Thakur

There’s a growing consensus among experts that India’s spin department needs greater penetration on traditional English wickets. Cricket voices like Sanjay Manjrekar, Sunil Gavaskar, Michael Clarke, Monty Panesar, and outlets like Sportskeeda and Economic Times are calling for Kuldeep Yadav’s return in place of Shardul Thakur Why this makes sense: Kuldeep’s wrist-spin brings variety and wicket-taking power—qualities that may be more effective than Thakur’s medium pace on turning pitches such as Edgbaston.

2. Dhruv Jurel for Karun Nair

India A’s wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has been on fire in practice games, producing consistent fifties. His recent form makes him a compelling candidate to replace Karun Nair, who struggled in the first test. Jurel offers reliable middle-order batting and his inclusion would bolster the batting depth, while maintaining the balance of the side.

3. Arshdeep Singh for Prasidh Krishna

Critics like Stuart Broad and social media discussions have emphasized the need for left-arm swing to complement India’s pace attack—especially with Bumrah possibly rested. Arshdeep Singh, with his left-arm angle and swing-friendly skillset, is tailor-made for English conditions. Although Prasidh Krishna delivered five wickets in the first Test, his inconsistent line-length and higher economy suggest Arshdeep might be the more strategic swing alternative.

🔎 Why These Picks Make Sense

These three adjustments aren’t drastic upheavals—they inject focused variety and form into India’s lineup: If India implements these, it could swing momentum in their favour in Birmingham. The next Test is a pivotal moment—and these tactical tweaks might just be the difference.