Kuldeep Yadav has been one of India’s most effective spinners in clutch moments, yet his journey in the longest format has been stop-start. The 29-year-old has not always been a regular feature in the Test set-up.

He was expected to be picked for the Chepauk Test but that wasn't meant to be. The second and final Test between India and Bangladesh will kick off on September 27, Friday at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.

It is highly likely that Jasprit Bumrah will be rested by the Indian team management to manage his workload, which will make way for Kuldeep to get into the playing XI. Let's take a look at the three strong reasons why India should play Kuldeep Yadav in the Kanpur Test.

1. A Homecoming in Kanpur: Kanpur holds special significance for Kuldeep Yadav, a place where he was born. Having played 12 matches in the red-ball format so far, it would be a fitting moment for him to play his maiden Test here where his journey began. Kanpur’s pitch has historically favored spinners and the conditions are likely to suit his style of bowling.

The surface at Green Park Stadium is made of black soil, which is quite slower compared to the red soil pitches found in Chennai. The chinaman bowler is expected to extract maximum spin and keep the Bangladesh batters in check. Given the favorable spin-friendly conditions and the emotional factor of playing in his hometown, it’s highly likely that Kuldeep will be included in the starting XI.

2. Impressive Performance in solitary Test against Bangladesh: Kuldeep Yadav might have made just a solitary appearance against the Tigers but has a proven track record against them. During India’s tour of Bangladesh in 2022, Kuldeep delivered a standout performance in Chattogram, where he picked up a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Notably, he went on to take three more wickets in the second innings and ended up on the winning side.

3) Hunger to deliver when called upon: Kuldeep Yadav’s Test career has been a story of rising to the occasion whenever he has been given an opportunity. In his 12 Tests so far, he has taken 53 wickets including 4 fifers and what stands out even more is his record on home soil. In 8 Tests in India, he has bagged 35 wickets at an average of 21.82, including two fifers.

Moreover, he is also on the brink of a personal milestone. With 294 wickets in international cricket. he is just six wickets shy of reaching 300 and he will be curious to push his tally over the line in the upcoming Test match.