Kuldeep Yadav released from India’s T20I squad
In a strategic move by the Indian team management, spinner Kuldeep Yadav has been released from India’s T20I squad midway through the ongoing series against Australia. The decision was made to allow the left-arm wrist-spinner to prepare for the upcoming second four-day match against South Africa A at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, starting on November 6, 2025. So let’s have a look Why Kuldeep Yadav released from India’s T20I squad?
Kuldeep Yadav to Focus on Red-Ball Preparation
The team management’s decision highlights India’s intent to prioritize Kuldeep’s readiness for the Test series against South Africa, scheduled later this month. Kuldeep is seen as a vital component of India’s red-ball setup, given his ability to exploit spin-friendly conditions and trouble opposition batters with his variations.
Kuldeep did not feature in the third T20I against Australia, and as per reports, he has already returned to India to join the red-ball preparatory camp ahead of the A series.
India’s Revised Squad for 4th and 5th T20Is vs Australia
- Suryakumar Yadav (C)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Shubman Gill (VC)
- Tilak Varma
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Shivam Dube
- Axar Patel
- Jitesh Sharma (WK)
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Arshdeep Singh
- Harshit Rana
- Sanju Samson (WK)
- Rinku Singh
- Washington Sundar
With Kuldeep’s departure, India will likely continue experimenting with spin options such as Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy for the remaining T20Is.
India A Updated Squad for South Africa Four-Day Match
- Rishabh Pant (C) (WK)
- KL Rahul
- Dhruv Jurel (WK)
- Sai Sudharsan (VC)
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Harsh Dubey
- Tanush Kotian
- Manav Suthar
- Khaleel Ahmed
- Gurnoor Brar
- Abhimanyu Easwaran
- Prasidh Krishna
- Mohammed Siraj
- Akash Deep
- Kuldeep Yadav
The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the India A setup signifies the management’s plan to provide him with longer-format match practice before the crucial home Test series.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Importance in the Upcoming Test Series
Kuldeep has had an outstanding 2025 across formats, cementing his reputation as one of India’s most dependable spinners. His recent performances in the Test series against the West Indies showcased his rhythm, control, and ability to pick wickets on flat tracks.
There’s a strong belief within the management that South African batters often struggle against quality spin, making Kuldeep’s presence invaluable. His ability to deceive with flight and turn will be India’s key weapon as the team aims for a dominant start in the red-ball contests.
Strategic Move Ahead of South Africa Series
By releasing Kuldeep from the T20I setup, the management ensures that the spinner regains his red-ball rhythm and adapts to the longer format ahead of the high-stakes South Africa Tests. This decision underlines India’s long-term planning and their commitment to maintaining balance across all formats.
Kuldeep’s preparation with India A will not only sharpen his form but also bolster India’s chances in the forthcoming Test series, where spin is expected to play a decisive role.
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