Senior spinner uses extended break to prepare for Test challenge and guide India’s inexperienced spin attack
Kuldeep Yadav believes his extended preparation time ahead of India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan could prove valuable after an underwhelming IPL 2026 campaign. With Delhi Capitals failing to qualify for the playoffs, the left-arm wrist-spinner had an early opportunity to switch focus from T20 cricket to the demands of the red-ball game.
Kuldeep, who managed just ten wickets in 12 IPL matches, admitted that transitioning from the fast-paced nature of franchise cricket to Test cricket is never straightforward. He spent nearly two weeks working specifically with the red ball, allowing him to rebuild rhythm and adjust his mindset before joining the national squad.
According to Kuldeep, the biggest difference lies in approach. While T20 cricket demands constant aggression and wicket-taking intent, Test cricket requires patience, discipline and the ability to build pressure over long spells. He acknowledged that several teammates have had less time to make that adjustment after featuring deep into the IPL season but remains confident the squad is well prepared.
India’s spin department enters the Afghanistan Test in a new era following the retirement of Ravichandran Ashwin, the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, and the non-selection of Axar Patel. Alongside Kuldeep and Washington Sundar, uncapped left-arm spinners Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar have earned places in the squad, creating one of India’s least experienced spin attacks in recent years.
As one of the senior spinners in the group, Kuldeep has embraced a mentoring role. He stressed the importance of making younger players feel comfortable within the team environment and encouraging open communication. Having watched Dubey and Suthar progress through India A tours and domestic tournaments, he believes both possess the game awareness and red-ball experience needed to succeed at the highest level.
Kuldeep also revealed that discussions among the spin group often revolve around understanding conditions, reading pitches and developing tactical plans. He regularly asks younger bowlers for their assessment of surfaces and match situations, using those conversations to sharpen their thinking and build confidence.
The focus, he said, is on mastering the basics—finding the right lengths, understanding pace variations and recognising when patience is required. In Test cricket, Kuldeep believes, success often comes not from forcing wickets but from consistently applying pressure over long periods.
With India preparing to begin a new chapter in their spin-bowling journey, Kuldeep’s experience and leadership could be just as important as his wicket-taking ability. As the team heads into the Afghanistan Test with a youthful spin unit, the left-armer is confident the group has the skills and preparation needed to make an immediate impact.
