Rohit Sharma used to sit with Ravindra Jadeja and now has been replaced by Kuldeep Yadav.
Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist spinner for Team India, disclosed that he, not new skipper Shubman Gill, has taken over Rohit Sharma's place on the team bus.
Prior to the England Tests, Rohit, who captained India in the previous two World Test Championships, announced his retirement. As a result, BCCI selectors chose to name the youthful Shubman Gill as the new India Test captain.
Additionally, Kuldeep Yadav has assumed Rohit's place on the India team bus and disclosed that he now sits next to veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. During a press conference on Sunday, Kuldeep admitted to taking over Rohit Sharma's place in the team bus.
"Uspe main baithta hu (I sit there)," Kuldeep said in the press conference.
Kuldeep went on to say, nevertheless, that he is unable to replace his old captain and gave the why, which had to do with veteran Jadeja.
"I can never take Rohit bhai's place. It's just that I am spending more time with Jaddu bhai. It's important to me as a spinner because Ash bhai is not there. I have learnt a lot from him. When I started my cricket, I have played with both of them. Very lucky to have Jadeja as my spin partner. I am enjoying it," Kuldeep said.
Ravindra Jadeja will lead the Indian spin attack in England, with Kuldeep Yadav for company. Kuldeep Yadav has only bowled nine overs in his sole Test appearance here.
It would be a major test for the younger players to step up once Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma depart. They will have to do so in difficult circumstances, where the batters will have a difficult time dealing with the weather and the swing. Due to his recent poor foreign batting performance, captain Shubman will also be under a lot of pressure to impress with the bat.
"When the seniors go away, their absence is always felt. Virat bhai and Rohit bhai have done so much for the team. They will be missed, but it's also an opportunity for youngsters to perform well. But yes, I am sure everybody would be missing the seniors. But the youngsters are excited for the challenge. Batsmen are working very hard in the nets and preparing really well," he added.
The first Test between India and England will begin on June 20 in Leeds.
(PTI inputs)