Chinaman bowler Yadav could be India’s weapon, Harbhajan says
Former off-spinner feels spin sensation will be country’s top spinner
Going forward, chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav will become India’s primary spin weapon, feels veteran bowler-turned-cricket commentator Harbhajan Singh.
“Kuldeep has shown glimpses of what he can do on a firstday wicket. He is slower in the air and gets the ball to turn both ways. Going forward, he should be India’s key and deciding factor. He will be the No. 1 spinner in future,” Harbhajan told IANS in an interview.
Kuldeep was the secondhighest wicket-taker against the West Indies in the just-concluded two-match series, picking up 10 wickets. Earlier, Kuldeep played just the second Test in England and was wicketless, bowling nine overs and leaking 44 runs. India lost by an innings and 159 runs.
Harbhajan, a lethal and celebrated off-spinner in his time who was part of India’s World Cup-winning team, did not want to read too much into that performance.
“In England, the conditions were seaming and the day he bowled, it was the coldest day in summer. So, for a wrist spinner, it is very difficult,” said Harbhajan, who was commentating during the England tour and watched Kuldeep from close quarters.
Asked about the two-Test series sweep against the West Indies, Harbhajan said the visitors were no side to beat at the moment, adding that this Indian team has in it to win the upcoming Test series Down Under. With Steve Smith and David Warner unavailable, this is their best chance.
India will play four Tests starting December 6 in Adelaide.