Former India spinner
Kuldeep featured in the first two matches of the series, held in Lucknow and Ranchi. While he recorded figures of 2/33 in the opening game, he conceded 53 runs in the second match, which resulted in a loss for India. Following these appearances, the spinner was excluded from the side for the subsequent fixtures in Indore and Hyderabad.
Ashwin Highlights Tactical Oversight
The debate over the selection intensified after India struggled in the fourth T20I in Hyderabad, where the West Indies posted a total of 247 runs and secured a 24-run victory. Ashwin argued that the decision to leave out a wrist-spinner who consistently challenged the West Indies batters lacked tactical foresight. He suggested that Kuldeep’s presence could have potentially restricted the opposition by 15 to 20 runs.
Addressing the specific conditions of the series, Ashwin noted that while he understood the rationale for omitting Kuldeep in Indore due to the small dimensions of the ground, he disagreed with the narrative that the spinner was responsible for the defeat in Ranchi. He stated that it was incorrect to make an issue out of Kuldeep’s performance in that particular match.
Context of the Series
Kuldeep’s exclusion comes after a strong showing in the preceding ODI series against the West Indies, where he finished as India’s leading wicket-taker with seven wickets across three matches. His ability to deceive batters with his googly and leg-spin had been a notable feature of his recent form.
With the T20I series currently locked at 2–2, the focus now shifts to the fifth and final match in Bengaluru. The team management’s selection policy remains a point of discussion as India looks to secure a series victory in the decider.
