AUS vs IND: Matthew Hayden and other experts explain why Kuldeep Yadav should play in the remaining ODIs

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As the much-anticipated India-Australia ODI series shifts to Adelaide for the 2nd ODI on October 23, 2025, all eyes are on India’s strategic team selection to counter the Aussie lineup on a spinner-friendly pitch. Following a seven-wicket loss in the opening ODI, where India missed key breakthroughs, the spotlight is intensifying on the inclusion of left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. With Adelaide Oval known to aid spin bowling, Kuldeep’s role in the remaining matches is critical for India to regain control and level the series.

Having been the highest wicket-taker in the Asia Cup 2025 with 17 scalps, Kuldeep has proven his skill and match-winning potential, especially in middle overs where wickets are vital to disrupt partnerships and apply pressure on the opposition.​

Kuldeep’s significance extends beyond his wicket-taking ability; he provides a vital balance to the Indian bowling attack, particularly in conditions where fast bowlers may not dominate. Experts stress the need for a genuine wicket-taking spinner to complement the pace attack.

His left-arm wrist spin offers variety and is known to be a thorn in Australia’s side, having picked 31 wickets in 23 ODIs against the hosts. This record suggests his knack for breakthroughs during crucial phases of the innings, often swinging momentum in India’s favour.

As the team management contemplates playing balance—batting depth versus bowling penetration—Kuldeep’s aggressive spin bowling is seen as a weapon that could turn games around, especially at venues like Adelaide that assist spinners with bounce and turn.​

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Cricket veterans and analysts, including Australia’s Matthew Hayden, strongly back Kuldeep’s inclusion in India’s playing XI. Hayden remarked, “I really feel they need to pick Kuldeep Yadav. Challenge Australia with spin and a genuine wicket-taking option.”

Hayden highlights that spin can disrupt Australia’s batting rhythm, making Kuldeep a key component in controlling the middle overs. Similarly, former Indian pacer Varun Aaron emphasized tactical flexibility, advocating for Kuldeep as a strike bowler in the middle, especially if the pacers fail to secure early breakthroughs. Aaron also suggested promoting KL Rahul up the order to strengthen the batting line-up, but underscored Kuldeep’s value as a wicket-taking spinner essential in any condition.​

Former Indian wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel echoed the need for an attacking spinner to break partnerships during mid-innings. Patel commented, “India needs an attacking bowler in the middle and when you have someone like Kuldeep Yadav who is a wrist spinner and can take wickets, India should figure out how to include him.”

This consensus among experts indicates that Kuldeep’s ability to provide crucial breakthroughs makes him irreplaceable, especially against a formidable Australian side looking to capitalize on Indian vulnerabilities without a strike spinner.​

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