Kuldeep managed only one scalp across two innings at Galle, bowling a total of 25 overs.
Pujara believes the wrist-spinner might have to pave way for uncapped off-spinner Saransh Jain in the starting lineup after an underwhelming show in the series opener.
While Manav Suthar picked 10 wickets and Ravindra Jadeja took four wickets, Kuldeep managed only one scalp across two innings at Galle, bowling a total of 25 overs.
However, Pujara threw his weight behind Kuldeep, stating that he’ll be ‘disappointed’ if the team management decides to sideline him. He wants the UP tweaker to be given another chance because continuity with quality players is crucial in the longest format.
“In my opinion, India should go with the same playing 11, but I have been hearing that instead of Kuldeep, Saransh can come into the playing 11 because Sri Lanka has a lot of left-handers," Pujara told Cricinfo.
“But I will be disappointed if that change happens because someone like Kuldeep should be given another opportunity. He’s a quality bowler. You don’t make too many changes when it comes to Test cricket. You don’t change a winning combination. So I feel Kuldeep should be part of the playing 11," he added.
Pujara called for Kuldeep’s inclusion in the second Test while also suggesting the management should support the left-arm wrist-spinner even if he fails to perform well in Colombo.
“Even if he doesn’t perform well in the second Test match, I still feel someone like Kuldeep should be backed. He is a quality bowler, and you don’t need to think too far ahead. I still feel you take one match at a time and one series at a time. Maybe in New Zealand, he may not get the opportunity to be part of the playing 11th. So you just continue with him in the second Test match. And then when it comes to playing against Australia, I think he will be the key," Pujara remarked.
India outclassed Sri Lanka in the first Test, registering a comprehensive 165-run victory to take an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series.