Uthappa Advises Gambhir to Drop Kuldeep, Promote Sudharsan Over Gill and Nair at No.3

Ahead of India’s Test series opener against England on June 20 in Leeds, former T20 World Cup champion Robin Uthappa has recommended bold lineup changes for head coach Gautam Gambhir. Uthappa advocates opening with KL Rahul alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, based on Rahul’s consistent form in recent A-team fixtures.

Notably, Uthappa suggests Sai Sudharsan occupy the crucial No. 3 slot, praised for his technique and red-ball potential, while proposing Shubman Gill bat at No.4 and Karun Nair at No.5 . This approach omits wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, instead favouring an extra batting option to strengthen the top order.

The recommended XI also includes Rishabh Pant behind the stumps and Ravindra Jadeja as the sole spinner. Uthappa argues these adjustments ensure a stronger, more balanced unit suited to England’s conditions. His suggestions underline the strategic focus on batting solidity in the absence of retired senior players.
*This news has been published on NDTV Sports on 12th June 2025

 

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