Kuldeep Yadav, India’s left-arm wrist-spinner, faces an uncertain future as he recovers from a groin injury that has cast doubt on his participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy and the series against England. The 2024 Champions Trophy, scheduled for February, is a crucial event for India, and Kuldeep, one of the team’s key spinners, is a critical part of their plans. However, a recent surgery and ongoing rehabilitation have raised serious questions about whether he will be fit in time for these important fixtures.
In October 2024, Kuldeep underwent surgery in Germany to address a groin issue that had been affecting his performance and fitness. Since then, the 29-year-old has been recovering at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore, but as of now, he has not resumed bowling. His fitness timeline has therefore become a major concern for the Indian team, which is preparing for a busy international calendar, including the highly anticipated Champions Trophy and the subsequent series against England.
Sources close to the Indian team have confirmed that Kuldeep’s return to bowling is critical for his chances of being considered for the Champions Trophy. The spinner needs to undergo match simulations and a rigorous bowling program before the team management can give the green light for his selection. As the tournament approaches, time is of the essence, and Kuldeep’s recovery will be closely monitored. However, the BCCI source added that the likelihood of Kuldeep featuring in the England series, which follows the Champions Trophy, is slim due to the limited window for full recovery and match fitness.
Kuldeep’s absence from the playing XI has already impacted India’s strategies in recent months. During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India opted for the inclusion of young Tanush Kotian over Kuldeep and Axar Patel, marking a shift in the team’s spin department. This decision raised eyebrows, as Kuldeep has been one of India’s leading spinners, especially in limited-overs formats. His performance in the 2024 IPL was instrumental in India’s spin-heavy attack, and his ability to turn the ball and break partnerships has made him a valuable asset for the national team. Without him, India has been forced to rely on other options, but there is no denying the importance of his presence, particularly in high-stakes tournaments like the Champions Trophy.