Why was Kuldeep Yadav released from the T20I squad?
India’s premier left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav has been released from the ongoing T20I series in Australia to return home and prepare for the much-anticipated Test series against South Africa. The decision, made in consultation with the Indian team management and the BCCI, highlights India’s focus on managing player workload and ensuring top readiness for the longer format. So Let’s take a look at Why was Kuldeep Yadav released from the T20I squad.
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Kuldeep, who played the first two T20Is but was rested for the third game in Hobart, will now join the India A squad for the second four-day match against South Africa A, starting November 6 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. This move is seen as a strategic step to help him adapt to red-ball conditions before the Test series begins on November 14 in Kolkata.
India’s Strategic Approach
Sources close to the team have confirmed that this release is part of India’s broader workload management policy. With the Test series being a crucial part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, the management wants Kuldeep to regain rhythm with the red ball.
Kuldeep’s recent form has been impressive across formats — his variations, accuracy, and control have made him a valuable asset in both limited-overs and Test cricket. The team management reportedly requested the move to allow him adequate preparation time in home conditions.
India A Opportunity and Squad Details
Kuldeep’s inclusion in the India A setup is also a chance to fine-tune his skills under red-ball conditions. Rishabh Pant will lead the side, with Sai Sudharsan as vice-captain. Other notable names in the squad include KL Rahul, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devdutt Padikkal, and Mohammed Siraj — indicating a strong bench strength ahead of the senior series.
India A’s first match ended in a thrilling win, with Pant scoring 90 to chase down 275. Kuldeep’s presence in the next fixture will boost the team’s spin attack alongside Manav Suthar.
India’s T20I Squad for Remaining Matches
For the remaining two T20Is against Australia, India will rely on Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership, with Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Rinku Singh strengthening the batting order. The bowling unit includes Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Washington Sundar, who replaced Kuldeep in the previous match.
FAQs
1. Why was Kuldeep Yadav released from the T20I squad?
He was released to prepare for the upcoming Test series against South Africa as part of workload management.
2. Which team will Kuldeep Yadav join now?
Kuldeep has joined the India A squad for the second four-day match against South Africa A in Bengaluru.
3. When does the India vs South Africa Test series start?
The first Test begins on November 14, 2025, in Kolkata.
4. Who replaced Kuldeep in the T20I squad?
Washington Sundar replaced Kuldeep Yadav for the remaining T20Is.
5. Who is leading India in the T20I series against Australia?
Suryakumar Yadav is captaining India for the Australia T20I series.
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