Axar Patel returns to the Indian squad for the second Test

Kuldeep Yadav has been released from the Indian squad for the second Test match. Axar Patel will be filling the void left by the chinaman.

Axar was unavailable in the opening game in Mohali that was wrapped up in a span of just three days. His unavailability was due to a shin injury that was couple with pangs of covid-19. The squad list released by BCCI clearly mentioned that Axar Patel will be available for selection in the second Test, provided he clears the fitness Test.

Kuldeep couldn’t make the cut as Ashwin and Jadeja were the two primary spinners alongside Jayant Yadav who couldn’t pick up a single wicket throughout the game.

As Axar will be returning to the fold, Jayant Yadav will be the likeliest contender to make way. He has managed to produce outstanding numbers in the home Tests, claiming 36 wickets at an average of 11.86. 

However, given the second Test being a day-night contest that will be starring the pink ball, Axar’s case for selection simply gets stronger than ever. India’s last Day-Night Test back at home saw him bagging the man of the match award as his figures read 11 for 70, which played an instrumental role in dismantling England.