Kuldeep Yadav on the Tough Switch From IPL to Red-Ball Cricket

Kuldeep Yadav has admitted that going from the IPL to Test cricket is not easy, though he is confident India have had enough time to get ready for the Afghanistan Test.

A quiet IPL

Kuldeep had a modest IPL 2026 with Delhi Capitals, taking 10 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 38.10 and an economy rate of 10.29. He said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo, that the change is tough and preparation becomes essential. He was fortunate to have time, practising for at least 10 to 15 days to get used to the red ball.

Different mindsets

The spinner explained that T20 demands constant attacking, whereas Test cricket calls for patience, because the batter has plenty of time. He noted that some players come directly from the IPL final with little time to adjust, but said he believes they have prepared well.

An inexperienced spin group

With Ravichandran Ashwin retired, Ravindra Jadeja rested and Axar Patel left out, India’s spin department is short on experience. The squad has newcomers Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar, along with Kuldeep and Washington Sundar, who both have limited Test experience.

Kuldeep backed the group and spoke about the need for a supportive environment. When a new player arrives, he said, the senior players’ role is to put him at ease so that he feels free to talk.

He also believes regular domestic cricket, including the Duleep Trophy and Irani Trophy, has equipped the younger spinners for the longer format even without international exposure. Because they play so often, he said, they are in good rhythm.