(BCCI Credit)
Indian wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav has shared insights into his resurgence, crediting the Delhi Capitals for playing a crucial role in his redemption. Prior to joining the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2022 through the mega auction, Kuldeep had been experiencing a challenging phase in his career. He struggled to secure a regular spot in the Indian team and contended with injuries that affected his form.
After recovering from a knee injury sustained in September 2021, the left-arm spinner diligently focused on his fitness at the National Cricket Academy. However, the Kolkata Knight Riders management began to doubt his abilities, leading to his release ahead of the mega auction. Despite this setback, other teams showed minimal confidence in him, resulting in the Delhi Capitals signing him for a modest sum of INR 2 crore. Despite the relatively low price tag, Delhi demonstrated unwavering faith in Kuldeep’s skills by immediately making him a key player from the first match. He proved his worth by claiming 21 wickets in 14 matches during his inaugural season with the franchise.
Kuldeep reminisced about his arrival at the Capitals camp, highlighting the warm reception he received from head coach Ricky Ponting and skipper Rishabh Pant.
“I never thought I’d change drastically over the last couple of years. When I joined DC in 2022, I did come in with changed skills, but I needed that confidence. I still remember when I met Ricky on the first day, he hugged me properly and said, ‘We wanted to have you in our team. I know your skills. Don’t worry about anything, and I will ensure you play all the games.’ So, Ponting helped me gain confidence, he used to give me ideas in training sessions. Rishabh as well, he is my brother, has always trusted me, and gave me full support,” Kuldeep said in the latest episode of DC Cafe.
The accomplished Indian spinner disclosed that his revival journey with the Capitals was significantly aided by then assistant coach Shane Watson. Kuldeep emphasized Watson’s instrumental role in his resurgence and revealed that he continues to heed the advice and insights shared by Watson before matches.
“However, I worked a lot with Watson. I bonded strongly with him; I used to share everything, even when I wasn’t playing well. I used to talk for hours with him in his room during the IPL (2022-23). He used to ask me about everything I was uncomfortable with, and I used to open up freely to him. He has played a big role in this. I still have notes from those conversations on my phone, and I rewind those before I play matches. I share an excellent bond with him. He has played a huge role in my revival,” he added.
The accomplished Indian spinner disclosed that his revival journey with the Capitals was significantly aided by then assistant coach Shane Watson. Kuldeep emphasized Watson’s instrumental role in his resurgence and revealed that he continues to heed the advice and insights shared by Watson before matches.
