Team India’s experienced spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy are still waiting for opportunities in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand. Despite being part of the squad, neither has featured regularly in the playing XI. Now, India's spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has explained why the two players are being kept on the sidelines.

Bahutule clarified that both spinners remain an important part of the team's plans and are fully prepared to play whenever required. However, their selection depends on the team's preferred bowling combination and the conditions.

Why Are Kuldeep and Varun Sitting on the Bench?

India have already secured the five-match T20I series with a 3-1 lead. The team management could consider making changes for the final match in Hamilton, but Bahutule said the players understand that selection depends on the team's requirements.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, he explained that Kuldeep and Varun are regularly practising and staying prepared for their opportunities. He also indicated that both players are aware they may not get a place in the playing XI if the team combination does not require them.

Their absence attracted attention after India's disappointing performance in the fourth T20I in Auckland. Indian bowlers conceded 259 runs, and the team suffered an 87-run defeat.

Could They Get a Chance in the Final T20I?

Bahutule expressed hope that the two spinners could feature in the final T20I or upcoming matches. Kuldeep is also part of India's ODI squad, while Varun Chakravarthy has not been selected for the 50-over series.

The coach emphasised that India's bowling strategy is based on attacking the opposition. However, he added that defensive bowling can also be an aggressive approach when the match situation demands it.

Axar Patel's Role in India's Spin Attack

Bahutule also praised Axar Patel for his ability to bowl effectively during the powerplay and adapt to different stages of an innings.

He pointed out that having players like Kuldeep and Varun on the bench gives India additional options, as both are capable of bowling at different stages of a match.

The coach also revealed that Abhishek Sharma has been working on improving his left-arm spin during practice sessions. However, whether he gets an opportunity to bowl in a match will depend on the captain's decision and the conditions.

What Went Wrong for India at Eden Park?

Bahutule also discussed India's bowling struggles at Eden Park, where New Zealand's aggressive batting proved difficult to contain.

The ground's unusual dimensions and relatively short boundaries created additional challenges for the Indian bowlers. Although the team had clear plans, it failed to execute them effectively against New Zealand's attacking approach.

With the series already decided, the final T20I could provide an opportunity for India to test different combinations. Fans will now be keen to see whether Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy finally get their chance.