‘He has not been dropped but released due to bubble fatigue’ – Jasprit Bumrah on Axar Patel replacing Kuldeep Yadav for 2nd Test against Sri Lanka

Team India’s vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah has opened up about the exclusion of Kuldeep Yadav for the second and final Test against Sri Lanka in Bangalore. The left-arm wrist-spinner, who was selected for the first game but warmed the benches, was released for the Day-Night game in order to accommodate a place for all-rounder Axar Patel. The southpaw has emerged as a vital part of the Indian team in home Tests.

However, a shin injury and a positive COVID-19 test have kept him out of action lately.  As BCCI’s medical team deemed him fit for the Bangalore Test, the selectors decided to include him in place of Kuldeep, who has been out of touch in recent times. Opening up about the same, Bumrah said Kuldeep hasn’t been dropped but given a rest from the bubble life.

Axar Patel has added a lot of value whenever he has played: Jasprit Bumrah

“See, we have not removed him from the team. He has been in the bubble for long time and hence he has been released. Staying in a bubble is not easy. Mental aspect is important,” said Bumrah in the pre-match press conference. On being asked about Axar’s inclusion, the right-arm pacer said the all-rounder was certain to be included once he regains fitness.

“Axar Patel has added a lot of value whenever he has played, has contributed a lot and offers a lot in all departments. He was injured but he jumps straight back in when he’s fit. We’ll discuss our combination but of course he’s valuable,” said Bumrah further. Meanwhile, India’s playing XI will be interesting to see in Bangalore.

Axar is all but likely to come in place of Jayant Yadav, who couldn’t do much in the previous game. However, as the Gujarat-born player is a genuine all-rounder, there’s also a prospect of Jadeja resting and Axar being included. Notably, Jadeja scored an unbeaten 175 and also took nine wickets in the previous clash and was adjudged the Player of the Match. Bumrah reckons no player would like to rest after such a stellar show.

“I don’t think Ravindra Jadeja would want to rest after such a Good performance. He is on a high and would want to replicate it,” he added.