Team India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has issued a clarification on the exclusion of left wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI for the first ODI of the three-match series against Australia. Kotak said Kuldeep was unlucky in the XI due to Perth’s friendly wicket and team combination.
India featured three all-rounders and three specialist pacers for the series opener in Perth, with Kuldeep Yadav on the bench despite his excellent recent form and impressive record in the format. Indian batters managed to score just 136 runs in 26 overs, leaving the bowlers with very little to defend.
Decision is taken after wicket evaluation – Sitanshu Kotak on Kuldeep Yadav
Sitanshu Kotak said that Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the second ODI will depend on the pitch and match conditions. He stressed that team balance is a priority over individual selection, with the decision based on whether the team needs an extra batter or a lower-order option.
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“The decision is taken after assessing the wicket. It entirely depends on the conditions whether you need an extra batter or a batter at number 8. It is more about the balance of the team than an individual,” Kotak added.
Kuldeep Yadav enjoys a stellar 2025 across all formats
Kuldeep Yadav had an exceptional 2025 across all formats. His omission from India’s XI in the first ODI against Australia came as a surprise. The left wrist spinner was instrumental in India’s Champions Trophy triumph, taking seven wickets at an economy of 4.79 in five matches.
He continued his dominance in the 2025 Asia Cup, finishing as the tournament’s top wicket-taker with 17 scalps, including four wickets in the final. Kuldeep continued his form in the home Test series against the West Indies, taking 12 wickets to help India secure a 2–0 series whitewash.
The 30-year-old cricketer has proven to be a key player for India in all formats. He has taken 181 wickets in 113 ODI matches at an average of 26.44 and an economy rate of under five.
They are almost aware that their turn will come – Sitanshu Kotak
Sitanshu Kotak also spoke about Yashasvi Jaiswal’s absence from the playing XI, adding that the young opener will have to be patient to seize his opportunity. Kotak said Jaiswal, who made his ODI debut earlier this year against England, must make the most of the opportunity when it presents itself.
“I think he’s in the team, in training, and they (the other kids) are pretty much aware that their turn will come, and they prepare well. Ultimately, only 11 can play, so you have to wait for your turn and then play,” Kotak said.
Yashasvi Jaiswal is yet to become a regular member of Indian white-ball teams despite his skills. The 23-year-old has cemented his reputation as one of the world’s best Test openers but has played just 23 T20Is and just one ODI, even with stellar performances in IPL and domestic cricket.
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