Veteran India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh is rooting for wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja in the Indian squad for the first Test against England. The series opener will begin at Leeds on June 20. The pitch at Leeds is known to aid pacers more than spinners.

“India should look to play Kuldeep Yadav. Of course, Jadeja will bowl with him. So, two spinners with three seamers would be the kind of perfect match for this game,” said the Turbanator. He termed Yadav as a potential match-winner irrespective of the conditions. “Let’s see if conditions change or favour the spinners. But even if not, these are two capable bowlers who can take wickets on any surface,” he said.

Citing his own example, Harbhajan recalled India’s bold decision to field two spinners at Headingley in 2002 when he and Anil Kumble bagged 11 wickets on a green top. “We went with five best bowlers who can pick wickets. That’s what matters in the end. You have to back those bowlers who can pick wickets in any conditions or any kind of wicket,” he said.

With Shardul Thakur scoring a century in the intra-squad warm-up and taking wickets, Harbhajan believes he holds the edge over Nitish Reddy for the fast bowling all-rounder’s slot. “India needs a bowler who can bat a bit. India have got batting till No. 7, and at No. 8, you need to see who can bowl and get those wickets for you and bat a bit. Not someone who bats and bowls a little bit. That’s where Shardul will be handy.”

Speaking about the much-talked-about exclusion of Sarfaraz Khan from the Test squad, Harbhajan said, “It’s very unfortunate… I was a bit shocked not seeing his name in the squad. I’m sure he will come back strong. He has got that will to make a comeback… All I can say is, don’t be disheartened, you will get your due, if not today, then tomorrow…Look at Karun Nair. He scored 300 runs against England and then never got too many opportunities. Now he is back with the team.”