India vs Afghanistan Test: India spinner Kuldeep Yadav has admitted that transitioning from the fast-paced Indian Premier League (IPL) to the demands of Test cricket remains one of the toughest challenges for players. Ahead of India's one-off Test against Afghanistan, scheduled to begin on June 5 in New Chandigarh, the left-arm wrist-spinner spoke about the adjustments required when switching formats.
Kuldeep, who endured a difficult IPL 2026 campaign with Delhi Capitals, revealed that he used the additional time after his franchise's early exit to prepare specifically for red-ball cricket.
Kuldeep Yadav explains challenges of moving from IPL to Test cricket
Speaking ahead of the Afghanistan Test, Kuldeep acknowledged that players coming directly from the IPL have limited time to readjust their mindset and skills for the longest format.
"It is tough when you switch from IPL cricket to red-ball cricket. Preparation becomes very necessary."
Unlike several Indian players who featured in the IPL 2026 final, Kuldeep had the advantage of getting extra practice sessions with the red ball after Delhi Capitals failed to qualify for the playoffs.
"Luckily, I got time. I practised for at least 10 to 15 days, and got the feel of the red ball."
The spinner explained how the mental approach differs significantly between T20 and Test cricket.
"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."
Kuldeep backs India's inexperienced spin unit
India will head into the Afghanistan Test without veteran spinners Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, and Axar Patel. As a result, Kuldeep and Washington Sundar are expected to shoulder greater responsibility alongside newcomers Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar.
Kuldeep said his focus will be on helping the younger players settle into the international setup.
"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."
"There might be a lack of international experience, but when it comes to preparation, match awareness, or red-ball cricket, they are absolutely on top because they are playing regularly."
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With India beginning a new chapter in their Test spin department, Kuldeep's experience could prove crucial as the team takes on Afghanistan in New Chandigarh.