Ashwin says India cannot go to South Africa without Kuldeep Yadav

Ravichandran Ashwin said Kuldeep Yadav must be part of India’s squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup after the wrist-spinner took 4 for 40 against West Indies on September 27. Ashwin argued that Kuldeep’s nearly 200 ODI wickets and proven ability make him indispensable on South African pitches. He praised the bowler’s recent county stint with Yorkshire for restoring rhythm.

Kuldeep had not played an ODI since early 2026 before returning for the series opener in Thiruvananthapuram. Ashwin rejected any notion of a comeback narrative, stating that Kuldeep has remained a champion spinner throughout his limited opportunities. India won the match by eight wickets after Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 139.

The second ODI is scheduled for September 30 in Guwahati. Ashwin’s comments add to public pressure on selectors to settle on a consistent role for the wrist-spinner ahead of the World Cup cycle.