Kuldeep Yadav backs Shubman Gill to lead with free mind on England tour

India’s wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav wants newly appointed skipper Shubman Gill to lead with a free mind on the upcoming tour of England, where the visitors would play five Test matches. Gill has taken over the captaincy baton from former skipper Rohit Sharma, who recently announced his Test retirement.

The youngster has an average of 35 in the red-ball version whereas he is averaging 25 while playing outside the subcontinent. Ergo, Gill would be determined to turn the tables in the tough English conditions.

Kuldeep said he will look to perform for the team and deliver as per the expectations.

Kuldeep Yadav said in an interview with Indian Express, “He should support me and include me in the XI for all matches, what else! A new captain has a lot of challenges and a lot on his mind. I don’t have any expectations from a captain. My expectations are from myself. “

“If I am playing, I should prepare myself thoroughly and give my best. He would have a lot of pressure on him, but there is no pressure on him from my side. He should lead the team with a free mind.”

The opening Test match between India and England will be played at Leeds, Headingley, from June 20 onwards.

On the other hand, Kuldeep also squashed reports of any rift with his Uttar Pradesh teammate, Rinku Singh. In a viral social media video, Yadav was seen hitting Singh after the IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders but the former denied that there was any altercation.

“Rinku is ghar ka ladka. He has stayed at my home a lot. He is like a younger brother. He has been with me from U-16 days. People saw on camera that I hit him but let me tell you he is a kalakaar (character). What can I tell them about our relationship? People don’t understand, and I can’t keep explaining these things,” he said.