India Playing 11 for IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Kuldeep Yadav returns, toss up between Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar

In a significant shuffle ahead of the second Test between India and England in Visakhapatnam, Rajat Patidar and Kuldeep Yadav are emerging as the probable replacements for the injured KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja in India’s playing XI.

The Indian team has faced a series of setbacks, with key players like Virat Kohli, Mohammed Shami, and Rishabh Pant already absent due to various reasons. The inclusion of Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar in the squad provides some relief, but the focus remains on the likely changes in the playing XI.

India Playing XI

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal
2. Rohit Sharma
3. Shubman Gill 
4. Rajat Patidar/ Sarfaraz Khan
5. Shreyas Iyer
6. KS Bharat (WK)
7. Ravichandran Ashwin
8. Axar Patel
9. Kuldeep Yadav
10. Jasprit Bumrah
11. Mohammed Siraj

Rajat Patidar, who replaced Virat Kohli in the squad ahead of the first Test, is expected to take Rahul’s place in the playing XI. As Patidar was chosen as Kohli’s replacement, indicating that the team management sees him as the number four player in Tests. With impressive performances, including consecutive hundreds against England Lions, Patidar’s form and experience make him a strong contender for the crucial number four spot.

Kuldeep Yadav, the chinaman bowler, is likely to replace Ravindra Jadeja, providing variety to the bowling attack. Unlike Sourabh Kumar, an orthodox left-arm spinner, Kuldeep’s unique style could pose a challenge to the English batters. Kuldeep has a proven track record, having taken eight wickets in his last Test appearance against Bangladesh in 2022. His ability to bring variety with the ball and contribute with the bat makes him a compelling choice over Sourabh.

As the anticipation builds for India England second Test, the Indian team faces the challenge of regrouping amidst the absence of key players. The inclusion of Patidar and Kuldeep adds an element of intrigue to the upcoming match, where India will look to level the series against a resilient England side.