Why Kuldeep Yadav is Not Playing Today IND vs SA 5th T20I?

The Indian team is all set to take on South Africa in the final T20I match, scheduled on December 19, at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The Men in Blue are leading the series, 2-1, and today, the Proteas have a chance to level it. Their performance has been brilliant in some of the games, but the results haven't been in their favour. Meanwhile, Indian players are having a great time on the field, smashing boundaries and taking wickets. But, skipper Suryakumar Yadav informed that India's star spinner Kuldeep Yadav is not playing in the 5th game against South Africa.

Why Kuldeep Yadav is Not Playing Today?

Kuldeep Yadav, who missed the first two games, was brought into the playing XI in the third game, where he bowled brilliantly. He claimed two wickets in two overs and conceded 12 runs. But, he is missing the final game as the captain mentioned that Washington Sundar is making his way into the team. Suryakumar Yadav didn't reveal the reason why Kuldeep Yadav is not playing today in this match. It is a huge blow for India as he is one of the best bowler in India. With his presence, the bowling line-up looks quite sorted.

There are many other changes that the Indian team made in the final T20I. Jasprit Bumrah came back into the team in place of Harshit Rana, while Sanju Samson made his way into the team, replacing Shubman Gill. The vice-captain missed the last match due to a foot injury. He travelled to Ahmedabad with the team but wasn't included in the playing XI. With the crucial series and the World Cup 2026, the management decided to keep Gill away from the final T20I. Until he gets all medical clearance, he will have to focus on his recovery.

Kuldeep Yadav's Recent Performance in White Ball Cricket

The left-arm spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, has been a consistent player in the Indian team due to his performance in crucial matches. He finished as the highest wicket-taker in the Asia Cup 2025, claiming 17 wickets in seven matches, at a stunning average of 9.29 and an economy of 6.27. His match-winning spell against Pakistan in the final was extremely crucial and proof that he is one of the best players on the team.

He was also included in the T20I squad for the Australia tour, but didn't get to play the entire series. He was released from the squad as the BCCI requested him to practice for the South Africa series. He played in the Test series and claimed eight wickets in two matches. Even in the three ODIs, he claimed nine wickets. Later, he missed the first two games in the T20Is, but went on to play the third one and claimed two wickets. Overall, Kuldeep has impressed the board with his performance across formats and is expected to be in the T20 squad as well.