Aakash Chopra Says Kuldeep Yadav Is Being Denied Fair Chances in India ODI XI

Overview

• Former India batter Aakash Chopra publicly criticised Team India on July 18 for repeatedly leaving Kuldeep Yadav out of playing XIs and asked, “Why is justice never done to this guy?”
• All three outlets report that India chose finger‑spinners Axar Patel and Washington Sundar in the ongoing England ODI series instead of Kuldeep, reflecting a clear selector tilt toward players who can bat.
• Chopra argued Kuldeep is often the first player dropped when strategy changes, results falter, or the batting underperforms, which he said prevents the left‑arm wrist‑spinner from settling into a steady role.
• The commentators note Kuldeep’s limited use this year, citing that he has played only one Test, four ODIs, and four T20Is in 2026 as evidence of inconsistent selection.
• No official response from selectors or the BCCI has been reported so far and the exchange sharpens a wider debate about whether ODI teams should prioritise specialist wicket‑takers in the middle overs or favour batting depth through all‑rounders.