Tag: Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep Yadav, India’s premier left-arm wrist spinner, has emerged as a game-changer in white-ball cricket. Known for his deceptive flight, variations, and ability to break partnerships, Kuldeep has revived the art of chinaman bowling in international cricket. On this page, you’ll find Kuldeep Yadav’s latest match updates, career stats, IPL performance, and news – exclusively at Today Cricket Matches.

Early and Personal Life

Kuldeep Yadav was born on December 14, 1994, in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh. Initially trained as a fast bowler, he later switched to left-arm wrist spin under the guidance of his coach, Kapil Pandey. His father, a brick kiln owner, supported his cricketing dreams, and Kuldeep trained at the Kanpur Cricket Academy.

Inspired by Shane Warne, Kuldeep spent years perfecting the rare skill of chinaman bowling, which eventually became his ticket to fame.

Early and Domestic Career

Kuldeep started his domestic career with Uttar Pradesh in 2012, gaining attention for his sharp spin and variations. He gained national prominence during the 2014 U-19 World Cup, where he became the first Indian to take a hat-trick in the tournament.

His performances earned him a place in the India A side and soon led to his IPL debut with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where his skill set shone on the big stage.

International Career

Debut and Early Career

Kuldeep Yadav made his Test debut in March 2017 against Australia in Dharamshala, taking four wickets in the first innings. His performance stunned the Aussies and marked the beginning of a promising international career.

He soon made his ODI and T20I debuts in 2017, quickly becoming a regular member of the limited-overs squads.

Top-Ranked Spinner in ODIs

Kuldeep formed a deadly spin duo with Yuzvendra Chahal (famously known as KulCha), playing a pivotal role in India’s ODI wins between 2017 and 2019. He reached No. 3 in ICC ODI bowling rankings and was India’s leading spinner in the 2019 World Cup.

He also became the first Indian spinner to take two ODI hat-tricks, against Australia (2017) and West Indies (2019).

Test Comebacks and World Cups

After a dip in form in 2020–21, Kuldeep made a remarkable comeback in Test cricket in 2022 and 2023, taking wickets consistently in subcontinent conditions. He was part of the squad in the 2023 ODI World Cup, finishing among the top wicket-takers.

His improved pace, control, and fitness have made him a more complete bowler across formats.

IPL Career

Kuldeep Yadav started his IPL journey with Mumbai Indians in 2012 but didn’t get a chance to play. He rose to prominence with Kolkata Knight Riders (2014–2021), where he played match-winning roles with his sharp googlies and turners.

After a quiet 2021 season, he was picked by Delhi Capitals in 2022, where he revived his form, finishing as their leading wicket-taker.

In IPL 2024 and 2025, Kuldeep continued his dominance with the ball, especially on slow tracks. His ability to strike in the middle overs makes him a key asset in the T20 format.

Playing Style

Kuldeep Yadav is a left-arm unorthodox wrist spinner (chinaman bowler), a rare breed in international cricket. He relies on flight, turn, and deception rather than speed. His variations include the googly, flipper, and slider, making him a constant threat to batters who struggle to pick him from the hand.

In recent years, he has improved his speed through the air and added better control, making him a more effective white-ball bowler.

Honors

India

  • First Indian to take two ODI hat-tricks
  • Leading wicket-taker for India in 2018–19 ODIs
  • Featured in India’s 2019 and 2023 World Cup squads
  • Match-winner in 2023 Test series against Bangladesh and Australia

Kolkata Knight Riders

  • IPL Titles: 2014
  • Consistent performer in middle overs
  • Known for his 4-wicket haul vs RCB (2018)

Delhi Capitals

  • Comeback season hero in 2022
  • Best economy rate among DC spinners (2022–25)

Individual

  • ICC Emerging Player Nominee (2018)
  • Fastest Indian spinner to 100 ODI wickets
  • Man of the Match awards across all three formats

Career Statistics

International Stats

Format Matches Wickets Average Economy Best Bowling 5W
Test 11 46 21.2 2.85 5/40 3
ODI 95 161 26.9 5.0 6/25 2
T20I 39 59 14.9 6.8 5/24 1

IPL Stats

Team Matches Wickets Avg. Econ. Best 4W
Kolkata Knight Riders 45 46 28.2 8.1 4/20 1
Delhi Capitals 42 55 22.1 7.6 4/28 2
Total 87 101 25.0 7.8 4/20 3