Difficult to transition from T20 to Tests in a short span of time, says Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep Yadav (File Pic)

Indian star spinner Kuldeep Yadav has admitted that transitioning between formats in a short period is a difficult task. Indian players will be in action against Afghanistan in a one-off Test match just a week after playing the IPL final.

"It is tough when you switch from IPL cricket to red-ball cricket. Preparation becomes very necessary. Luckily, I got time. I practised for at least 10 to 15 days and got the feel of the red ball," Kuldeep said in a chat with 'JioHotstar'.

"In T20, you are always attacking. You always think about going after the batter. You stay in the game with that mindset. But in Test cricket, it's not like that. The batter has a lot of time.

"Some players are coming straight after the IPL final. They don't have that much time. But I'm sure they have prepared well. So yes, it's a challenge, but I'm confident that everyone is preparing themselves well," he added.

Kuldeep Yadav could play without Jadeja and Ashwin for the first time

Should Kuldeep feature in the starting XI, it will mark a unique milestone in his career, as he will take the field without Ravichandran Ashwin or Ravindra Jadeja for the first time.

While admitting that the team will feel the void left by Jadeja, Kuldeep backed the potential of newcomers Manav Suthar and Harsh Dubey to deliver on the big stage.

"Yes, Jaddu bhai (Ravindra Jadeja) is not there, as he is a regular Test player. We will also miss Axar Patel in the Test match. But the preparations have been good. Many youngsters are here. Harsh, Manav. Washi (Washington Sundar) is also playing Test cricket quite regularly now, so he is well settled in the set-up." Kuldeep added.

The 31-year-old spinner is keen to ensure that the fresh faces feel at ease within the national camp, encouraging them to seek his guidance whenever required.

"Whenever a new player joins the team, your job is to make him comfortable. You want him to see you as a partner. If he has any problem, he should feel free to talk to you, and you must be ready to support him," Kuldeep stated. "Right now, there is good bonding with two or three of the younger players. It feels good to have them around."

(With PTI inputs)