Ravichandran Ashwin Questions India’s ODI Selection After Kuldeep Yadav’s Omission

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticized the team management’s decision to drop Kuldeep Yadav in the first ODI against Australia in Perth. Despite having three all-rounders — Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel — India struggled to post a competitive total and eventually lost by seven wickets in the rain-shortened 26-over match.

Expressing disappointment over the selection strategy, Ashwin emphasized the importance of prioritizing quality bowling options over batting depth. “I can understand their idea of including two spinners and Nitish Reddy for batting depth, but at least pay attention to the bowling. On big grounds like these, if Kuldeep can’t bowl freely, where else can he? His overspin would have helped him generate bounce too,” Ashwin stated.

He further argued that adding extra batters to the lineup only protects the top order instead of improving overall team balance. “If the strategy is based on batting depth, then the batters must take responsibility. It’s their job to score runs. Playing an extra batter just shields them. Always play your best bowlers — don’t extend the batting lineup unnecessarily,” he added.

Ashwin also questioned the necessity of fielding three all-rounders in the playing XI. “How many all-rounders do you need? You already have Washington, Axar, and Nitish. If you still can’t include your best spinner, I don’t understand it at all,” he said.

Kuldeep Yadav has been in exceptional form in recent months. He was the highest wicket-taker in the Asia Cup 2025, securing 17 wickets in seven innings at an impressive average of 9.29. He also led India’s bowling attack in the Test series against West Indies, claiming 12 wickets in four innings with best figures of 5/82.

The left-arm wrist spinner has a strong record against Australia, with 31 wickets in 23 ODIs. With the second ODI scheduled in Adelaide — a venue that typically supports spin bowling — Kuldeep is expected to return to the playing XI as India aims to level the series.