Kuldeep Yadav Attributes Success to Relaxed Approach at ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup
Pune, Oct 23 : In a recent conversation with host Brian Murgatroyd on The ICC Review podcast, Kuldeep Yadav expressed his belief that a more relaxed approach to his bowling has been the key factor behind his success at the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Kuldeep, who made his World Cup debut in 2019, revealed that he has evolved into a more mature bowler compared to his initial tournament appearance. With a total of eight scalps in India’s unbeaten run of five matches in the current World Cup, he has already surpassed his previous record of six wickets from seven appearances in 2019.
The left-arm spinner entered the World Cup in excellent form, having earned the Player of the Tournament award at the Asia Cup. Maintaining his strong performance, Kuldeep has taken at least one wicket in each of India’s first five games.
Kuldeep attributed his success to a new approach at the bowling crease and a more relaxed lifestyle outside of cricket. He emphasized not dwelling on external pressures, focusing on what he can control, and working on improving his bowling skills.
“I don’t fear failure too much now. I keep working on my things, on improving my bowling, and I try to think about the skills that are in my hand and are in my control. I’m not thinking about how the batter is playing. I work on what I can do as a bowler, so perhaps, that is what makes me relaxed,” shared Kuldeep during the podcast.
Growing up as a pacer and later converted into a spinner on the advice of his coach, Kuldeep idolized Pakistan legend Wasim Akram and emulated Australia great Shane Warne. Despite Warne’s passing last year, Kuldeep revealed that the legendary spinner had often provided him with advice about spin bowling.
“If there is any doubt (with how I am bowling), I look at his old action. I feel I am very lucky to have spent some time with him and to have been his good friend,” said Kuldeep.
He acknowledged Warne’s strong mental approach and shared how the Australian legend had been a significant influence on his cricketing journey.
