Ahead of India’s Champions Trophy campaign, all eyes were on Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and how his absence might impact the pace attack. Mohammed Shami was making a comeback from injury, while Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana lacked significant international experience.
But it wasn’t just the fast bowlers facing fitness concerns. A key member of India’s spin unit, Kuldeep Yadav, was also returning after a long injury layoff.
Kuldeep’s Dominance in ODIs
Over the past three years, Kuldeep Yadav has been one of India’s most reliable bowlers in ODIs. Since 2022, the left-arm wrist-spinner has taken 70 wickets in 45 matches at an impressive average of 23, making him India’s second-highest wicket-taker in this period.
However, late last year, Kuldeep underwent groin surgery, which forced him to miss almost the entire domestic season. His only match practice before the Champions Trophy came during the England series, where he played two ODIs but managed just one wicket in each game. Despite these modest returns, captain Rohit Sharma remained confident in his lead spinner, backing him without hesitation.
Delivering on the Big Stage
Kuldeep’s ability to break partnerships in the middle overs and strike at the death has been a crucial weapon for India. He proved that once again in a high-stakes match against Pakistan, picking up three key wickets.
“Injuries take time to recover from. I played two matches against England and felt I was in good rhythm. Even against Bangladesh, I felt the same, though I didn’t get wickets,” Kuldeep admitted. “But from the first over against Pakistan, I knew my rhythm and control were back.”
A key adjustment Kuldeep made after his knee surgery in 2021 was to increase his pace and run-up speed, allowing him to maintain greater control and deception. Returning from his recent injury, the biggest question was whether he could hit his peak form again—and against Pakistan, he showed he was right back at his best.
Magic Against Pakistan
Kuldeep’s spell against Pakistan highlighted his clever variations:
- He outfoxed Salman Ali Agha with flight, forcing a leading edge.
- The very next delivery, he trapped Shaheen Afridi lbw with a deceptive wrong ‘un.
His sharp bowling left no doubt that he had a bag full of tricks ready for the tournament.
A Focused Comeback
Kuldeep credited the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for his swift recovery, saying, “I didn’t take many days off. Even when I did, I was called back. I knew I would miss the Champions Trophy if I delayed my recovery even slightly.”
Despite his impressive return, he acknowledged that he’s still working on regaining full accuracy and consistency, adding, “Playing more games will help me get even better. Facing different match situations allows me to mix my pace and refine my variations.”
With a standout performance against Pakistan, Kuldeep Yadav has set the stage for a remarkable comeback—and as the Champions Trophy unfolds, he’ll be aiming to rise even higher.