Kuldeep Yadav aims at building his red-ball experience against Australia-A

India went ahead with the 23-year-old left arm wrist spinner in the Lord's Test but the move didn't prove fruitful at all as he didn't manage to pick up a single wicket in the only innings and conceded 44 runs. Consequently, the management decided to drop him from the squad for the remaining matches and Kuldeep decided to be a part of the India-A side.

The side is currently playing Australia-A in Bengaluru, where Kuldeep picked up two wickets each in both the innings of the first unofficial Test at M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

“I spoke to (chairman of selectors) M.S.K. Prasad sir and India head coach Ravi (Shastri) sir before leaving England. They told me to play as much cricket as possible," Kuldeep told The Hindu.

“The conditions in England were such that a team can play only one spinner. So opportunities for me were few. I’d rather play here, as sitting out of the Indian team does not really help me. These two unofficial Tests are very important for me, as I can build my red-ball experience. If I get into rhythm for India-A, then I will be better prepared for the West Indies series.”

Speaking about his experience of playing in England, the Uttar Pradesh bowler stated that the crowd coming to watch Test cricket was amazing in England. Kuldeep has played only three Test matches for India and has scalped nine wickets. He has been far more successful in limited overs cricket with 48 and 24 wickets in ODIs and T20Is, so far.

“There were big crowds to watch the Test series against England. Here, you hardly get a crowd, so you need to find motivation. I tell myself that I should focus on performing at my best regardless of which team I represent,” Kuldeep said.