In a recent press conference in Colombo, India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak addressed questions regarding the absence of spinner
According to Kotak, Kuldeep's health had deteriorated during the team's stay in Galle. "He genuinely had viral when he left from there. If the team needs an off-spinner, there is no need to say that he isn't well. If the guy is in no position to play, there is no point thinking about what would have been done if he would have been fit. It's unfair to think like that," he remarked, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the players available for selection.
Debut for Saransh Jain
With Kuldeep unable to participate, India opted to give a debut to 33-year-old Saransh Jain. Kotak described this decision as straightforward, particularly given the number of left-handed batsmen in the Sri Lankan lineup. "When we left, only his throat wasn't well. He has recovered reasonably well. He looked good when I met him in the evening. So it came down to whether we need three fast bowlers or three spinners. And with them having four left-handers in the top order, it made sense to play an off-spinner," he explained.
Interestingly, there have been varying accounts regarding Kuldeep's condition from within the Indian camp over the past few days. Spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule had previously mentioned that both Kuldeep and KL Rahul were "resting" during the team's first practice session in Colombo on August 21. Despite his illness, Kuldeep traveled with the team and was seen in the dugout alongside teammate Sarfaraz Khan.
Official Statement from BCCI
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially stated that Kuldeep Yadav has not fully recovered from his viral illness and was therefore unavailable for selection in the second Test. However, the BCCI noted that he could still take the field as a concussion substitute if necessary. Captain Shubman Gill was the first to disclose Kuldeep's health issues when questioned about the changes in the Playing XI.
