Kuldeep, Jadeja, Suthar: Will India play three left-arm spinners in Galle? Coach drops hint

India could field three left-arm spinners in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, with bowling coach Morne Morkel saying Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Manav Suthar offer different skills and can form an attacking bowling combination.

Kuldeep brings left-arm wrist spin and an attacking option, Jadeja relies on accuracy, while Suthar bowls a more traditional left-arm spin.

“Kuldeep is there, and he’s the attacking sort of bowler and for us, his experience and class can’t look past. So yeah, I think for us they’re all different in their way,” Morkel told the media here on Thursday.

“So one (Suthar) turns a bit more, one (Jadeja) is slightly more accurate and I don’t think it’s a (three left-arm spinners) massive concern for us.

“It’s just how Gill is going to use those guys at certain times. But yeah, I mean in terms of skill they’ve got the skill to get the 20 wickets for us,” he added.

— Sahil_Malhotra1 (@Sahil_Malhotra1) Kuldeep, Jadeja, Suthar: Will India play

Morkel said the Galle pitch could also support the decision to play three spinners, with conditions expected to become more helpful to spin as the Test progresses.

“Traditionally also if you look at the venue how it stacks and how it’s been played up, that’s sort of the way (three spinners) to go I think. The way we go with our spin bowling attack or spinners, it’s a very attacking option.

“But looking at the surface, you know, to me, looks like a good surface, and I think as the Test goes on, you know, something will start to happen.

“So, we’ve prepared for all that can come our way, as it is more about the mental challenge in playing these conditions, batting time, bowling those spells and getting the ball in the right areas,” he detailed.

India are also deciding on their second seamer alongside Mohammed Siraj. The choice is between Gurnoor Brar and Prasidh Krishna, both of whom have limited Test experience.

Morkel said either player would be ready if selected.

“I think it’s exciting. They’ve played a lot of cricket back home where it’s also tough bowling conditions, and I think coming here the biggest challenge will be the heat and humidity.”