Kuldeep Yadav’s T20 World Cup Spot in Jeopardy After Alarming Form Slump

Kuldeep's form a worry ahead of T20 WC: Modest returns in NZ ODIs highlight fading zing

Kuldeep Yadav’s T20 World Cup Spot in Jeopardy After Alarming Form Slump

Just months before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, India’s spin department is facing a crisis—and at its center stands Kuldeep Yadav, once hailed as the heir to Anil Kumble’s legacy. During the recent ODI series against New Zealand, Kuldeep’s performances were not just modest—they were deeply concerning. With figures that failed to trouble top-order batters and a noticeable lack of bite in his trademark wrong’uns, the left-arm wrist-spinner’s struggles have ignited a fierce debate: Is Kuldeep Yadav T20 World Cup material anymore?

For a team banking on spin as its primary weapon in subcontinental conditions, this isn’t just a dip in form—it’s a red alert.

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The NZ Series: A Wake-Up Call

In the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, Kuldeep Yadav bowled 27 overs across three games but managed only two wickets—at an economy rate of 5.85. More troubling than the numbers was what the eye test revealed: his googly lacked deception, his flight was predictable, and his confidence seemed shaken.

New Zealand’s centurions—Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra—targeted him with ease, especially during the middle overs when spinners are expected to stifle momentum. In contrast, New Zealand’s spinners like Mitchell Santner consistently broke partnerships and controlled the run rate .

Where Has the “Zing” Gone?

Kuldeep’s golden phase came between 2017 and 2019, when he bamboozled batters from Australia to England with his sharp turn and subtle variations. But since his return from injury in 2022, something has been off. Analysts point to several factors:

  • Mechanical drift: His release point has become flatter, reducing turn and bounce.
  • Predictable lines: Batters now anticipate his stock delivery, neutralizing his threat.
  • Workload management: Constant rotation between formats may have disrupted rhythm.

As former selector Saba Karim noted, “When a wrist-spinner loses mystery, he becomes just another part-timer” .

T20 World Cup Stakes: Why Kuldeep Matters

India’s T20 World Cup hopes hinge on dominating the middle overs with spin. In the 2024 tournament, Kuldeep was instrumental in key wins. But if his current form persists, the team risks entering the 2026 edition without a genuine wicket-taking spinner in white-ball cricket.

The Kuldeep Yadav T20 World Cup dilemma is amplified by the lack of ready-made replacements. While Ravi Bishnoi shows promise, he lacks experience. Axar Patel offers control but not the X-factor. Without Kuldeep at his best, India’s spin attack looks one-dimensional.

Alternatives: Emerging from the Shadows

Several names are now being floated as potential backups or even replacements:

  • Ravi Bishnoi: The leg-spinner has impressed in the IPL and domestic T20s with aggressive wicket-taking.
  • Varun Chakaravarthy: Despite inconsistency, his mystery spin could be a wildcard in short bursts.
  • Dhruv Jurel (as keeper): Allows flexibility to play an extra spinner without compromising batting depth.

However, none offer Kuldeep’s proven big-match temperament—if he can rediscover it.

Can He Bounce Back in Time?

History suggests yes. Kuldeep has overcome slumps before—most notably in 2021, when he rebuilt his action under NCA guidance and returned stronger. With the National Cricket Academy (NCA) now equipped with advanced biomechanics labs, a technical reset is possible.

Key steps for recovery:

  1. Focus on T20-only workload to rebuild rhythm.
  2. Reintroduce the loop and flight that made him lethal.
  3. Play in the upcoming IPL as a lead spinner, not a support act.

For more on India’s spin conundrum, see our deep dive on [INTERNAL_LINK:future-of-indian-wrist-spinners].

Conclusion: A Defining Few Months Ahead

The Kuldeep Yadav T20 World Cup question isn’t just about one player—it’s about India’s strategic identity. If he regains his zing, India gains a match-winner. If not, selectors must act boldly. With less than four months until the tournament, time is running out. One thing is clear: nostalgia won’t win matches. Performance will.

Sources

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