India backs Kuldeep Yadav after poor performance in Galle Test
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 3:08 PM
Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Kuldeep Yadav struggled in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, taking only one wicket in 25 overs across both innings. Despite this, India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule expressed confidence in Kuldeep's abilities and emphasized his importance to the team's plans going forward. He noted the challenges wrist spinners face with the Kookaburra ball, particularly as it softens, making it harder to maintain effectiveness compared to finger spinners. Kuldeep is expected to adapt his technique and speed as the series continues, with the next Test scheduled in Colombo.
- •Kuldeep took one wicket in 25 overs in Galle.
- •Ravindra Jadeja and Manav Suthar combined for 14 wickets.
- •Bahutule insists Kuldeep remains a key player for the team.
- •Kuldeep faced difficulties due to the Kookaburra ball's conditions.
- •India's next Test is set for Colombo.
- 3:08 PMYahoo Sports — 'Definitely in the scheme of things': India refuse to panic over Kuldeep Yadav after poor Galle outing
"Kuldeep picked up just one wicket in 25 overs across both innings in Galle, while Ravindra Jadeja and Manav Suthar shared 14 wickets between them.
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