It was surprising not to see Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI against England: Harbhajan Singh

Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh is astonished by India's decision of not picking Kuldeep Yadav for the first Test against England. The wrist-spinner has been with the team since the tour of Australia. With Ravindra Jadeja injured, Yadav was expected to be one of the three spinners against England. However, the team selectors decided to go with left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem. The veteran spinner stated that even though Nadeem's inclusion in the team was justified, India's decision to neglect Kuldeep Yadav and playing two off-spinners in Ashwin and Sundar was uncertain.

Kuldeep Yadav's presence would have added a bit of variety: Harbhajan Singh

With all three Indian spinners playing in Chennai Test being finger-spinners, selecting a wrist spinner would have given India a much-needed variety in their bowling attack. The 26-year-old last featured in a Test match at the Sydney where he scalped a five-wicket haul. Thus, to be neglected for a long time after performing well was something beyond Harbhajan's understanding.

Joe Root's 100th Test Milestone

At the end of day one, the Indian bowlers had to work hard as England ended in a strong position at 263-3. England skipper Joe Root was sublime as he scored his 20th century in his 100th Test. This was his third century in three Tests in 2021. He was also the star performer against Sri Lanka last month as he scored 228 and 186 respectively. His last three centuries came in his last three appearances (228 vs SL, 186 vs SL, 100* vs IND). Root became the second-youngest to play 100 Tests for England after former batsman Alastair Cook.

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