India, July 31 -- Former India captain Sourav Ganguly on Thursday reminded head coach Gautam Gambhir of the value of having a spinner of Kuldeep Yadav's calibre in the line-up, after the leggie's misfortune continued at The Oval. Despite growing anticipation that Kuldeep would finally get his chance in London, India stuck with their tried combination of two spinners and three fast bowlers for the series finale.

Kuldeep had been the experts' favourite throughout the tour. Ever since India landed in England for the five-Test series, most-if not all-pundits had backed his inclusion in the playing XI. They pointed to his wicket-taking ability and the unique threat he posed to English batters. But the calls went unheeded.

With Gambhir favour...