India head coach Gautam Gambhir has backed Kuldeep Yadav ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka, saying the spinner should focus on bowling well instead of putting too much pressure on himself to take wickets.
Kuldeep picked up only one wicket in the first Test in Galle, which India won by 165 runs. His limited bowling time has led to questions over whether he will retain his place in the XI for the second Test.
India also have uncapped off-spinning all-rounder Saransh Jain as another option.
Gambhir explains India's bowling plan
Gambhir said India will select the bowling attack based on which combination gives them the best chance of taking 20 wickets.
Gambhir's message to Kuldeep
Speaking about his conversations with Kuldeep, Gambhir said the spinner has been asked to concentrate on his bowling rather than becoming desperate for wickets.
Kuldeep's place in the team remains one of the main selection talking points ahead of the Colombo Test.
Gambhir happy with Galle Test
Gambhir was also pleased with the nature of the pitch in Galle and the way India performed over five days.
Why India prefer five specialist bowlers
Gambhir also explained why India want to continue with five proper bowling options, especially on pitches that become easier for batting.
Gambhir praises Devdutt Padikkal and Manav Suthar
Gambhir also spoke positively about the emergence of young players such as Devdutt Padikkal and Manav Suthar.
He said their performances show the growing depth in India's red-ball setup.
Young players will get time, says Gambhir
The India coach also stressed that young players should not be judged after just one or two matches.
Gambhir backs Jaiswal to keep playing his shots
Gambhir was also asked about Yashasvi Jaiswal's tendency to get out while playing the cut shot.
Rather than asking the opener to stop playing the shot, Gambhir wants him to improve his execution.