Kuldeep Yadav reveals his idol and picks the favourite batsman

On Sunday (25th June), Kuldeep Yadav, an Indian Chinaman bowler had his first ever bowl in an ODI at a venue where a Chinaman invented his unique style of bowling, nearly a century ago.

Well, the left-hander has credited Australian legendary spinner Shane Warne for his inputs and guidance. Speaking exclusively to Yahoo Cricket on his idol, Kuldeep said, “I became a huge Shane Warne fan and obviously talking to one’s idol is a great thing. Warne spoke to me about his bowling and my bowling and his inputs were of immense help.”

Kuldeep Yadav 03

Here are some more excerpts from the interview of Kuldeep Yadav:

Tell us about your Test debut

Anil (Kumble) bhai told me before the match that ‘you’ll be playing tomorrow’. I was both happy and nervous and a little tense. I was worried about my performance, but after the game I was really happy.

On turning the Dharamsala Test on its head

When I got the ball in my hand there was only one thing on my mind: to bowl in the right places. After the lunch break Anil bhai asked me to bowl dots and keep them under pressure. I just went out and followed what he said and it worked!

Your most special wicket

For me the first wicket was very important. After that I got into the groove. But my favourite dismissals were those of (Glenn) Maxwell and (Peter) Handscomb. I got Handscomb with a wrong one and played on Maxwell’s mind to get him out.

Kuldeep Yadav 06

How do you plan to cement your India place?

As a youngster I have a game-by-game focus. I want to work on my strengths rather than on other stuff. I need to work really hard on my fitness and also on my batting and fielding. I am not really worried about the competition (other players) but about my own ability.

Your most potent weapon?

I believe in my chinaman more than in any variation. I feel I’m mainly known as a chinaman bowler and that’s what I’m working on.

Who is your idol Chinaman bowler?

Having worked with Brad Hogg, he is my favourite. He has great skill, a great wrong one, as well as a great flipper. He’s got everything!

Your favourite batsman?

Virat Kohli. He is, after all, the No.1 batsman in the world. I also admire Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers and would love to bowl to them.

AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli

What are your other interests?

I really love soccer and I’m a big fan of Barcelona. Actually, I don’t watch cricket much, but love watching soccer. I also enjoy playing table tennis and watching movies.

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CATEGORY: AB de Villiers Australia Featured Hashim Amla India Kuldeep Yadav ODI Players Shane Warne South Africa Teams Virat Kohli

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