Former Team India cricketer Anil Kumble praised wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, saying that despite a brief interval between Asia Cup and the home series and fewer chances, he has maintained his rhythm and confidence exceptionally well.
In the first innings of the West Indies, Kuldeep returned with the figures of five wickets for 82 runs in 16.5 overs.
Speaking about the spinner`s crucial performances, Kumble said on `Cricket Live`, “Absolutely brilliant! I have always been a great admirer of Kuldeep Yadav, and despite limited opportunities, he consistently showcases his match-winning abilities. It is not easy to maintain rhythm and confidence without regular play, but Kuldeep seized this chance perfectly in the first innings”.
In the second innings of the Caribbean, the side has lost just two wickets after scoring 173 runs on Day 3. John Campbell and Shai Hope, who are unbeaten on the scores of 87 and 66 runs, respectively, will resume the play on Day 4. Hope completed 9,000 runs in his international career.
So far, in 236 international appearances for the West Indies, the right-handed batsman has scored a total of 9,057 runs, including 21 centuries. His best score across three formats is 170 runs.
The former cricketer was nothing short of praise for Yadav and is hopeful that the 30-year-old aims to claim the remaining wickets on Day 4.
“He played a pivotal role in dismantling the West Indies batting line-up, demonstrating control and composure. I expect him to be central again when India returns to bowl tomorrow and aims to claim the remaining wickets. Kuldeep`s outstanding performances have been evident across formats whenever given the opportunity, whether with the red or white ball,” added Kumble.
So far, the visitors are trailing by 97 runs in the second Test match against Team India. Currently, Roston Chase and Co. are trailing the two-match Test series by 0-1 against the Shubman Gill-led Team India.
Earlier in the West Indies` first innings, along with Kuldeep, Ravindra Jadeja also showcased his skills with the ball. Bowling 19 overs, he bagged three wickets by conceding 46 runs. Star pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj also claimed one wicket each to their names.
(With ANI Inputs)