Saikiran Uppuluri
Saikiran Uppuluri
After India’s convincing series win against England, head coach Rahul Dravid shared insights into the team’s strategy, particularly regarding the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI. Dravid explained that despite the option of choosing an all-rounder like Washington Sundar after Ravindra Jadeja’s injury, they decided to go with a specialist spinner in Kuldeep.
Dravid referenced former teammate VVS Laxman when he saw Axar Patel walk in to bat at No. 6, noting the similarity in their positions. He emphasized the importance of taking all 20 wickets to win matches, indicating that the decision to include Kuldeep was a bold one that paid off.
“When I saw Axar walk in at No.6, I remember looking at Vikram and thinking, ‘Jeez, VVS (Laxman) used to walk out at that position’. With due respect to Axar (laughs), he is a lovely player,” Dravid said.
“That’s the bottomline of what me and Rohit have always spoken about. That’s what wins you Tests…being able to take 20 wickets as quickly as possible. It was the braver option and I am glad we went with that. That’s what paid off,” Dravid added.
Dravid praised the young talent in the team for stepping up in the absence of senior players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, who were unavailable due to personal reasons and injury, respectively. He expressed pride in the team’s evolution and growth, particularly after losing the first Test match and having to bounce back with a slightly different team than originally planned.
“I think just the fact that we lost the first Test match, had to bounce back from there, had to do it with a slightly different team to the one that we probably expected to start the series with a few months ago,” Dravid said. “It does make you feel really proud and happy for the way the team’s evolved, the team’s grown and just happy for the boys.”
India’s victory in the series showcased the team’s depth and ability to perform under pressure, boding well for future matches. Dravid’s strategic decisions and the team’s performance have been lauded, highlighting a promising future for Indian cricket.
