Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin praised Kuldeep Yadav for his outstanding bowling display on the third day of the current Test match against England in Ranchi on Saturday, February 25th.
Ravichandran Ashwin stood out as the top performer among the Indian bowlers, claiming another five-wicket haul. However, Kuldeep Yadav also played a crucial role, offering excellent support with figures of 4/22 in his 15 overs. Ashwin noted that besides Kuldeep’s natural talent, he was particularly impressed by how Kuldeep effectively varied his pace and trajectory, making it challenging for the English batsmen.
I thought Kuldeep bowled brilliantly- Ravichandran Ashwin
In a post-match interview with the host broadcaster after the conclusion of Day 3’s play, Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts on Kuldeep Yadav’s spell.
I thought Kuldeep bowled brilliantly. What I really loved about Kuldeep today was the way he was working on his run-up, changing momentum. When you can change up the pace like that and change the trajectory, I think he is double the bowler he is. Really happy for him. I stole the fifer away from him but that’s how the game goes.”
Given Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja’s automatic selection when fit, India faced a choice between Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel for the role of the third spinner. Opting for Kuldeep, the left-arm wrist-spinner justified their decision with a stellar performance, showcasing his value to the team.
His defense was gun, he was showing a lot of composure- Ravichandran Ashwin on Kuldeep Yadav
Prior to his impressive bowling performance, Kuldeep Yadav played a crucial role with the bat, forming a valuable partnership of 76 runs with wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel. Kuldeep’s patient contribution of 28 runs off 131 balls was immensely valuable, allowing Jurel to bat more freely without taking unnecessary risks and helping India inch closer to England’s first-innings total. Ravichandran Ashwin praised Kuldeep Yadav’s batting,
I think we were a bit too harsh on KD (Kuldeep). Got him to bat earlier than what he would have expected. But I felt his defense was gun, he was showing a lot of composure, kept the dressing room very calm.”
Ravichandran Ashwin also lauded Dhruv Jurel for his remarkable innings of 90 runs under immense pressure. He said,
Great composure for somebody playing just his second Test match. Tight in defense, had a great game plan, wasn’t going bonkers, picked the right bowler to hit. It was a huge lift. We had batted through till Lunch, almost getting us on par (with England). If you would have given us even 70-80 runs ahead (lead for England) going back to the hotel, we would have taken it with both hands.”
The partnership between Kuldeep Yadav and Dhruv Jurel was pivotal in shifting the momentum in India’s favor. This was evident as the hosts were able to dismiss the visitors for just 145 runs in their second innings. India was left with a target of 152 runs to win on Day 4, with all ten wickets still intact, setting up an intriguing final day of the match.
Also Read: https://goworldwide.co.in/zak-crawley-lauds-joe-root-for-his-knock/