"Uspe main baithta hu" - Kuldeep Yadav reveals why he is occupying Rohit Sharma's seat in team bus ahead of ENG vs IND 2025 Test series

India's left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav has revealed that he is occupying the seat in the team bus which was left vacant following Rohit Sharma's Test retirement. Making it clear that he can never take Rohit's place in the team, the 30-year-old explained that he is utilizing the opportunity to sit next to spin partner Ravindra Jadeja and learn as much from the veteran as he can.

A video went viral on social media a few days back where Jadeja was seen sitting in the team bus, with the seat next to him, which was earlier occupied by Rohit, vacant. Jadeja and Rohit were often referred to as travel buddies.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, June 15, Kuldeep confirmed that he is now occupying the seat vacated by Rohit following his Test retirement. He said:

"Uspe main baithta hu (I sit there)."

Elaborating on why he has picked that particular seat, the wrist spinner explained:

"I can never take Rohit bhai's place. It's just that I am spending more time with Jaddu bhai. It's important as a spinner for me because Ash bhai is not there. I have learnt a lot from him. When I started my cricket, I have played with both of them. Very lucky to have Jadeja as my spin partner. I am enjoying it."

The 30-year-old also admitted that India will miss the services of Rohit and Virat Kohli (who has also retired from Test cricket) during the series in England. He, however, asserted that the youngsters in the team are excited to grab their opportunities. Kuldeep commented:

"When the seniors go away, their absence is always felt. Virat bhai and Rohit bhai have done so much for the team. They will be missed, but it's also an opportunity for youngsters to perform well. But yes, I am sure everybody would be missing the seniors. But the youngsters are excited for the challenge. Batsmen are working very hard in the nets and preparing really well."

Both Rohit and Kohli announced their Test retirement last month following a poor tour of Australia. Subsequently, Gill was named captain for the England Tests.

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"We have been having a lot of chat" - Kuldeep Yadav on interaction with Ravindra Jadeja

Asked to elaborate on what kind of interaction he has been having with Jadeja, Kuldeep said that they have been discussing how to bowl at England's batters and field placement tactics as well. The Uttar Pradesh cricketer said:

"Playing alongside Jadeja is great and it's an honor for me. We have been having a lot of chat about how to bowl at certain batters. I am spending a lot of time with him, which helps tactics wise. We have been talking about fielding placements and he has given some clues as well."

Kuldeep has played 13 Test matches so far and has claimed 56 wickets at an average of 22.16, with the aid of four five-fers.