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Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has delivered a strong message to the Indian cricket team: to secure victory in the ongoing Test series against England, they must include wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI. Clarke’s advice, directed at batting stars Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill, was emphatic, calling the decision an “absolute no-brainer” in a recent interview.

The series, currently locked at 1-1, is poised for a thrilling conclusion. With England’s aggressive batting lineup and challenging pitches, Clarke believes Kuldeep’s unique skillset is crucial for India to gain a decisive advantage. He highlighted the spinner's ability to generate sharp turn and deceptive variations, making him a potent weapon against England’s batsmen.

“Look, it’s a simple decision,” Clarke stated. “Kuldeep Yadav has to play. He offers something different. England aren’t used to facing wrist spin of that quality. You need that X-factor, that surprise element, and Kuldeep provides that in spades. For Gambhir and Gill, the pressure is on to score runs, and Kuldeep can alleviate some of that pressure by taking wickets and putting England under pressure.”

Clarke’s argument stems from Kuldeep’s recent form and his historical impact in Test cricket. While he hasn’t always been a consistent selection, his ability to pick up crucial wickets at key moments has often been invaluable to the Indian team. His variations – the googly, the flipper, and the subtle changes in pace – can deceive even the most experienced batsmen.

The Indian team management has faced criticism for their rotation policy and seemingly inconsistent selection choices. Including Kuldeep would not only provide a tactical advantage but also send a clear message about the team’s commitment to winning. It signals a willingness to prioritize match-winning potential over perceived stability.

Furthermore, Clarke emphasized the importance of Kuldeep’s confidence. “Once he gets going, he’s incredibly hard to stop. He needs to be backed by the captain and the team, and given the freedom to express himself. If India can create that environment for him, he’ll be a match-winner.”

The final two Test matches promise to be captivating encounters. With Clarke’s strong endorsement and the potential impact Kuldeep Yadav could have on the series outcome, all eyes will be on the Indian team to see if they heed his advice and unleash the wrist-spinning threat.

Will India listen to Clarke and bring Kuldeep into the XI? The series hangs in the balance.