By Swapneel Deshpande September 19, 2023
In a strategic move to preserve the talent of Kuldeep Yadav, the Indian cricket team management has opted to rest him for the first two ODIs against Australia. Kuldeep Yadav, who recently earned the Player-of-the-Series award at the Asia Cup, has solidified his position as a crucial asset for the Indian side.
During the Asia Cup, Kuldeep Yadav demonstrated exceptional bowling prowess, taking a total of nine wickets in five matches at an average of 11.44 and an economy rate of 3.61. His standout performance included a sensational five-wicket haul against arch-rivals Pakistan, contributing significantly to India’s massive 228-run victory. Kuldeep continued to shine with his wrist-spin skills, claiming four vital wickets in India’s defense of a modest 213-run total against Sri Lanka.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained the decision to rest Kuldeep for the initial matches against Australia, stating, “We have been monitoring Kuldeep for the past one and a half years, and that’s why we don’t want to overexpose him. He will return for the last match. There are several reasons for this decision. It’s the best approach for us to have him sit out for two games and play the third. We also have two practice matches before the World Cup opener, so he will regain his bowling rhythm,” Rohit said.
Former Indian cricketer and IPL coach, Ajit Agarkar, who had the opportunity to work closely with Kuldeep Yadav at the Delhi Capitals, emphasized the invaluable qualities that make him an indispensable asset for India’s World Cup campaign.
Agarkar stressed the importance of showing faith and confidence in a bowler’s mindset, stating, “Every player needs to be shown faith, given a bit of confidence, which the team management has done, and it is showing on the field. In various conditions and against varied opposition, he is one of the trump cards for the team. I’m happy and excited about what he is doing. Clearly, most teams coming up against him find it a challenge, and where he is at, all of us are excited about what lies ahead,” Agarkar observed.
With Kuldeep Yadav’s exceptional form and strategic management decisions, India is looking forward to a promising performance in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023.
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