India are all set to host Australia in a four-match Test series, starting February 9 in Nagpur. The series will be crucial in determining the top two spots in the World Test Championship.

Ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, former India selector Sunil Joshi has said that left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the playing XI could be vital to the home team’s fortunes.

“If Ashwin is our first option, and if Jadeja is not available, then it should be Kuldeep and Akshar. If Jaddu is available and they are playing three spinners, Kuldeep should play. Don’t look at the venues or whether our spinners will do well or not at them. Look at the way Kuldeep has picked up wickets,” Joshi said while speaking to ESPNCricinfo.

“In whatever series he has played recently, whether it is red or white-ball, his dismissals are within the 30-yard circle. That is a great thing for a bowler because it shows consistency in line and length. If India have to win against Australia, Kuldeep will play a major part,” he added.

Joshi, who was part of the selection committee between 2020 and 2022, also pointed out that wrist-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has been struggling in the past few matches.

Keeping his form in mind, Sunil Joshi said Chahal won’t feature in his 2023 ODI World Cup squad while Kuldeep would make the cut.

“Given the options I have at this point in time, Jadeja will be in my squad. If he is not in good rhythm, you have a back-up in Akshar Patel. I would probably look at Washington Sundar or Ravi Bishnoi, if I have to have one more leg-spinner. Bishnoi is more consistent, has a quicker arm action and is a better fielder than Chahal,” he remarked.