Kuldeep Yadav last played for India in March 2025 during the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand. After that, he did not feature in the five-Test series against England.

Now, his comeback to the playing XI appears delayed once more. This time, however, the decision is based on the pitch conditions, not the team balance. The Dubai surface is expected to favor fast bowlers, leaving Kuldeep out of India’s starting XI.

Green Pitch Changes India’s Plans

On Monday, India held their first practice session at the Dubai International Stadium. Players noticed a green-tinted pitch, which clearly benefits seamers.

Earlier this year, during the Champions Trophy, India played “four specialist spinners” on slow, dry tracks that offered turn. However, this pitch is different and “better suited for fast bowling,” making it less likely for multiple spinners to feature.

Bowling coach Morne Morkel explained, “When the Champions Trophy was played, there was a lot of cricket on the surfaces here, and they looked a little bit tired.” He added, “Tonight we'll have a first look at the surface, and I believe there's quite a bit of grass covering on the square.”

Therefore, Morkel said India would “finalize their strategy on match day” after carefully assessing the conditions.

Varun Expected to Lead Spin Attack

As a result, India will likely pick only one specialist spinner. Varun Chakaravarthy is expected to take that role because of his consistent T20 performances.

The second spinner’s duties will be handled by Axar Patel, who also strengthens the batting order. Moreover, Abhishek Sharma can offer additional overs of left-arm spin if required.

Morkel praised Kuldeep’s work ethic despite his exclusion, saying, “He’s a very professional athlete. His attitude since England, where he received hardly any game time, has been fantastic. He still puts in the overs.”

He further explained, “Kuldeep knows what to do to get himself ready for white-ball cricket. We set goals during training, and from there, it's up to the bowlers to go out and lead with the ball.”

Gambhir Focuses on Batting Depth

Head coach Gautam Gambhir remains committed to batting depth in every format.

In the Champions Trophy, India used three all-rounders. With Ravindra Jadeja retired from T20Is, Shivam Dube could now take that role. Dube adds “power to the middle order” and provides valuable seam-bowling support.

Additionally, there will be a toss-up for the number seven spot between Dube and wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma. From training sessions, it appears that “Jitesh may edge out Sanju Samson” for the role.

Bumrah and Arshdeep to Lead Pace Unit

India’s pace attack remains solid. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh will spearhead the bowling department.

Given the extra grass on the surface, selectors might consider including Harshit Rana as a third seamer. However, they are “unlikely to go with three fast bowlers in the first match.”

Final Outlook

In conclusion, India plans to adapt its strategy for the Asia Cup opener by depending on pace and batting depth. With seamers expected to dominate, Kuldeep Yadav will likely sit out, while Varun Chakaravarthy leads the spin attack.

Ultimately, as Morkel emphasized, India will “make the final call on match day after carefully assessing the pitch,” ensuring they field the most balanced XI possible.