(Image source from: X/@BCCI)

Kuldeep Yadav, a key spinner for India who was named in the starting team for the first Test against South Africa, has requested time off from the BCCI towards the end of November. South Africa's visit to India consists of two Test matches, three ODIs, and five T20 games. The first Test kicked off on November 14, and the last T20 match is scheduled for December 19. The final day of the second Test will be on November 26, while the first ODI is set for November 30. A report from BCCI sources states that Kuldeep has requested leave during the last week of November. "Kuldeep is planning to get married in the last week of November. The team management will evaluate when his presence is needed before deciding on the exact days he can take off," a source from the BCCI said. Earlier this year, Yadav had to delay his wedding because the IPL faced an unexpected break due to tensions between India and Pakistan.

Kevin Pietersen, a former England cricketer, supported Kuldeep Yadav's selection in India’s team for the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens on Friday. Kuldeep, who is playing his fourth Test this year, kept his spot in the team for the series opener in Kolkata. He was joined by experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, along with Washington Sundar and Axar Patel to strengthen the spin bowling lineup. "I’m excited that Kuldeep is playing Tests," Pietersen posted on X. Kuldeep was also part of India’s team in the two-Test series at home against the West Indies last month, where he took 12 wickets in four innings.

Earlier in the month, Kuldeep was released from the Indian T20 squad that faced Australia after playing three games so he could get ready for the Tests against South Africa. He was also selected in the India A team for their second unofficial Test versus South Africa A in Bengaluru. He only took one wicket in that match, which the home team lost by five wickets. Kuldeep, who was part of the Indian team for the significant five-match Test series against England earlier this year, was not selected for the trip. Ravindra Jadeja served as India’s main spinner, while Washington Sundar assisted him to manage the bowling responsibilities.