India's three-pacer strategy sidelines Kuldeep Yadav in third T20I
India's decision to play three specialist pacers and a part-time seamer in the third T20I came at the cost of wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav.
India fielded three specialist quicks plus Nitish Kumar Reddy's part-time pace in the third T20I against West Indies, leaving Kuldeep Yadav out of the XI for the first time in the series. Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav formed the pace attack while Naman Dhir provided spin support.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra said the selection reflected the need for a death-over specialist and additional batting depth, since none of the three frontline pacers could bat at number eight. Kuldeep would have been useful on a surface where Roston Chase excelled, but the team prioritised variety in the quick bowling options.
Mayank Yadav, returning after nearly two years, has taken nine wickets in 22 overs across six spells against Zimbabwe and West Indies at an economy of 8.27. Former bowling coach Bharat Arun said pace alone would not suffice in New Zealand and that execution of plans would determine Mayank's effectiveness.