As India prepare to face England in the opening Test at Headingley on June 20, all eyes are on how the visitors will shape their bowling attack. With conditions in Leeds often favouring seamers, the usual instinct would be to go pace-heavy.
But with players like Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav in the squad, India’s think tank faces a real decision: stick to the traditional formula or take a bold step with two spinners.
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This becomes all the more interesting considering India’s past at Headingley, where spin unexpectedly played a major role in their famous 2002 win.
What did Harbhajan Singh say about India's spin options for the 1st Test?
Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh believes the team should field both Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja in the first Test. Sing feels the duo offers enough variety and wicket-taking ability to succeed even in conditions that are not overtly spin-friendly.
"India should consider playing Kuldeep Yadav. Of course, Jadeja will bowl with him. So, two spinners with three seamers would be the perfect combination for this game."
"Let’s see if conditions favour spin. But even if they don’t, I think these are two capable bowlers who can take wickets on any pitch," Harbhajan told PTI Videos.
He also reflected on India's strategy in 2002 when he and Anil Kumble helped script a famous win on a green Leeds pitch.
Harbhajan backed Shardul Thakur for the all-rounder’s role - highlighting his play with both bat and ball - especially after his performance in the warm-up game.
"India needs a bowler who can bat a bit… That’s where Shardul has an edge over Nitish Reddy in my view," he added.
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Harbhajan also expressed surprise at Sarfaraz Khan’s absence from the squad. He called it unfortunate but urged the young batter to stay focused.
"I was a bit shocked not to see his name in the squad… Don’t be disheartened, you will get your due, if not today, then tomorrow," he concluded.