ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Kuldeep Yadav’s Ability to Pick Wickets Across Phases Key to India’s Success

Over the past three years, Kuldeep Yadav has solidified his position as one of India’s premier bowlers in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Since 2022, the left-arm wrist spinner has taken the second-highest number of wickets for the Men in Blue, with 70 scalps at an impressive average of 23 in 45 games.

### The Build-Up to India’s Champions Trophy Campaign

In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, much of the focus was on Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and the impact his absence would have on India’s pace attack. With Mohammed Shami returning from injury and Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana lacking extensive experience, the spotlight on the fast-bowling unit was intense.

However, the spin department also faced its challenges. Kuldeep Yadav, a crucial member of the spin unit, was returning from a lengthy layoff due to a groin surgery late last year, which caused him to miss almost the entire domestic season. He had only the England series to regain match fitness before heading to Dubai.

### Kuldeep’s Key Contributions

Despite the limited preparation, Kuldeep’s ability to provide breakthroughs in the middle overs and at the death has been a cornerstone of India’s success. This was evident during the weekend clash against Pakistan, where he took three vital wickets.

“Injuries take six months to recover. I played two matches against England. I had good rhythm. Even against Bangladesh, I felt it, but obviously, you always look for wickets,” said Kuldeep. “But when I bowled my first over against Pakistan, I knew I had better rhythm and control.”

### Adapting and Overcoming Challenges

A significant change Kuldeep made after his knee surgery in 2021 was to increase his pace and run in quicker. This adjustment has been crucial in his return to form. Against Pakistan, Kuldeep showcased his skill by beating Salman Ali Agha in flight and trapping Shaheen Afridi with a well-disguised wrong ‘un.

Kuldeep credited his rehabilitation work at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for his swift recovery. “I maximized everything to get fit for the tournament. I thank the NCA. I did not take too many days off, and when I took a couple, I was called back. So, I was focused. I knew I would miss the Champions Trophy if I delayed things even slightly. I was not sure if I would be able to recover in time, but all credit to the people at NCA.”

### Looking Ahead

Despite his impressive performances, Kuldeep admitted there is room for improvement, considering he has played only a few matches since his comeback. “To be honest, in terms of accuracy, I feel that if I play more games, I will be much better. When you face different match scenarios, you tend to mix your pace and find your variety,” he added.

A game-changing performance in a high-profile encounter is the perfect launchpad for Kuldeep as he aims to soar higher and lead India to further success in the Champions Trophy and beyond.