Kuldeep Yadav with Suryakumar Yadav [X.com]
In the decider of the three-match T20I series against South Africa, Indian left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav orchestrated a remarkable comeback, securing his best-ever figures in the format. Kuldeep outstanding performance, securing five wickets for a mere 17 runs in 2.5 overs, proved pivotal in India's triumph, balancing the series at 1-1.
In a recent video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), stand-in skipper Surya Kumar Yadav engaged in a candid conversation with Kuldeep. Surya Kumar inquired if a chat with veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal contributed to Kuldeep's exceptional five-wicket haul. Kuldeep responded,
"Chahal bhai and I had a brief conversation as he had just arrived after a long flight. He advised me not to make drastic changes to my bowling. Even during tough times a few years ago, he consistently supported me. If we get the chance to play together in ODIs, we hope to perform well."
Reflecting on his strategic approach in the third T20I, where he claimed the fifer, Kuldeep shared,
"I focused on a specific length, and with the observation that the pitch was slow, I varied my deliveries, mixing flighted ones with quicker ones. Some wickets were a bit fortunate as the ball kept low. Once I had three wickets, I aimed for the five-wicket haul."
Turning the conversation, Kuldeep inquired about Surya Kumar's feelings after achieving a record-equalling fourth T20I hundred. Surya Kumar emphasized his mindset, stating,
"I don't think about the runs; I just want to enjoy my batting. Scoring in challenging conditions and receiving Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards overseas is satisfying. All credit goes to God; God is great."
Surya Kumar also matched Rohit Sharma's record for the most T20I hundreds, acknowledging the team's guidance during the innings. He remarked,
"During the timeout, Rahul and Vikram Bhai encouraged me to bat deep. Equalling Rohit Bhai's record is an honour, and I'm grateful for everything."
Surya Kumar Yadav's ascent in T20Is has been nothing short of meteoric, achieving four centuries in just 57 innings. With the T20I series stelled at 1-1, the focus now shifts to the upcoming ODIs series. The three-match ODI series is set to kick off on December 17 at the Wanderers Stadium, promising another exciting chapter in the cricketing rivalry.
 "Sumit Gupta")
