Kuldeep owes a lot to Rishabh in terms of getting him back on track: Abhinav Mukund

Kuldeep Yadav and Abhunav Mukund. (Photo Source: Twitter)

In cricket, we often focus on the player’s grit and determination, but there’s an unspoken hero who plays a pivotal role behind the scenes – the one who offers unwavering support and belief. Such is the case with the comeback of left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, whose recent brilliant performance owes a substantial debt to Rishabh Pant’s backing.

Kuldeep’s journey to redemption was met with challenges, and his confidence weakened post the 2019 World Cup. Yet, his renewed form has sent waves of excitement through the cricketing fraternity, thanks in part to Pant’s resolute faith. Abhinav Mukund, former India batter, sheds light on Pant’s crucial role in Kuldeep’s transformation.

“Kuldeep owes a lot to Rishabh in terms of getting him back on track,” Mukund articulates during a show on Jio Cinema, underscoring the significance of Pant’s backing during the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Pant’s support during Kuldeep’s IPL stint with Delhi Capitals breathed life back into the bowler’s confidence. Kuldeep’s modified run-up and the fine-tuning of his bowling trajectory, instigated by his changed approach, have all contributed to his resurgent form.

Kuldeep’s revival was highlighted by his performance in West Indies, where he took key wickets across the ODI and T20 series. A crucial factor in his success was his ability to confuse opponents with his variation and control; attributes that were honed with precision. Kuldeep’s remarkable consistency and effectiveness turned him into a reliable wicket-taking option for Captain Hardik Pandya.

Abhinav Mukund emphasises that Pant’s influence has not only resuscitated Kuldeep’s bowling prowess but also his overall self-belief. This underlines the unseen influence that senior players can exert, making it evident that cricket, more than just a sport, thrives on camaraderie and mutual trust.

As the cricketing world looks ahead, Abhinav Mukund sees Kuldeep Yadav’s position in India’s spin-bowling lineup as strong. He said,

“I won’t be surprised if India picks Kuldeep and Jadeja ahead of Chahal in the World Cup. I think Kuldeep has leapfrogged Chahal at this point.”