Will Kuldeep Yadav Return After 288 Days? Player No. 288 Eyes Test Comeback at The Oval

As the five-match Test series between India and England nears its conclusion, all eyes are on the final match starting July 31 at the Kennington Oval in London. The Indian team landed in London on July 28 and wasted no time getting down to practice. With Rishabh Pant ruled out due to injury, changes in the playing XI are imminent—particularly in the bowling department.

Kuldeep Yadav Set for a Comeback?

According to media reports, Chinaman spinner Kuldeep Yadav is a strong contender to make it into the playing XI for the Oval Test. Interestingly, if selected, he will return to Test cricket exactly 288 days after his last appearance, which was against New Zealand in October 2024.

The coincidence? Kuldeep Yadav is also India’s 288th Test player, making the potential return even more symbolic. Known for his rare left-arm wrist spin, Kuldeep hasn’t featured in any of the matches in this series so far, but The Oval’s spin-friendly conditions may finally work in his favor.

Why The Oval Could Suit Kuldeep

The Kennington Oval pitch is traditionally known to offer assistance to spinners as the match progresses. This could provide Kuldeep the perfect stage to unleash his wrist-spin magic. With the Indian team needing a breakthrough option in the middle overs, the team management is seriously considering him as a game-changing inclusion.

A Look at Kuldeep’s Test Record

Kuldeep Yadav made his Test debut in 2017 and has played just 13 matches in total. Despite limited opportunities, he has picked up 56 wickets at an impressive average of 22.16, including four five-wicket hauls. His stats are among the best for an Indian spinner with such limited exposure, yet consistent selection has eluded him.

Now, with the series at stake and the conditions aligning, will player number 288 finally get his much-deserved chance after 288 days?