India vs Sri Lanka Tests: Bowling coach Bahutule backs Kuldeep for 2nd Test; keeps Saransh Jain in contention
Indian spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has expressed confidence in Kuldeep Yadav ahead of the second Test match against Sri Lanka. The coaching staff is focusing on adapting player performance to specific pitch conditions and managing the mental load of a busy international cricket schedule.
Why it matters
Effective player management and tactical adaptation are critical for national teams competing in high-stakes international cricket series.
Nostalgia may have enveloped Sairaj Bahutule when he entered the SSC Ground. He would have remembered his last Test played at the same venue in 2001, a game India lost. The Indian spin-bowling coach, though, quickly immersed himself in the nets here Friday (August 21, 2026).
Later, near the dugout, he spoke to the media about the twirly men under his watch. Many questions centred around Kuldeep Yadav, a fine talent but seemingly rusty at the moment.
“Kuldeep has been bowling extremely well. It’s just that due to the situation that arose in Galle, he had to play a different role. He tried his best to execute that role,” Bahutule said.
Kuldeep Yadav on the third day of the first test match between India and Sri Lanka at Galle International Stadium. File | Photo Credit: ANI
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