Asia Cup 2025: Maninder Singh Says Kuldeep Yadav May Be Benched Again; Varun Chakravarthy to Be India’s X-Factor
Former spinner calls Kuldeep’s absence in England Tests a big loss for India....
New Delhi : Former India spinner Maninder Singh has expressed concerns that Kuldeep Yadav might again be left out of the playing XI in the Asia Cup 2025. Singh highlighted Kuldeep’s absence in the recent England Test series as a missed opportunity for India.
Kuldeep Yadav first showcased his left-arm wrist-spin skills at the 2014 Under-19 World Cup and quickly earned his spot in the Indian side through strong domestic and IPL performances. He has delivered match-winning spells in the T20 World Cup 2024 and the Champions Trophy 2025, including key wickets against England and New Zealand.
However, in recent times, the team management has preferred spinners who can contribute with the bat. Singh said, “If Kuldeep had played in England, India could have won the series 3-1. The team selection seemed aimed at avoiding loss rather than winning. Kuldeep Yadav would have played all five Tests.”
Looking ahead to Asia Cup 2025, Kuldeep’s chances of featuring in the playing XI again seem slim, as team management may prioritize Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy.
Varun Chakravarthy has been India’s standout mystery spinner in the past year. He has taken 31 wickets in 12 T20I innings at an average of 11.25 and an economy rate of 7.58. His performance in the Champions Trophy 2025, where he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker with nine wickets in three matches, solidified his place in the team.
Maninder Singh called Chakravarthy India’s X-Factor, praising his smart bowling and ability to read batters. “He’s very smart and knows how to bowl in different situations. He may look blank on the outside, but he’s a real thinker,” Singh said.
India Squad for Asia Cup T20 2025:
Surya Kumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (WK), Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh.
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