AB de Villiers hails Kuldeep Yadav for Asia Cup 2025 heroics

Former South African captain AB de Villiers showered praise on Kuldeep Yadav after the wrist spinner performed consistently for India in the Asia Cup.  India defeated Pakistan by five wickets in the continental tournament’s final at Dubai on Sunday.

Kuldeep Yadav was the star of the tournament as he bagged 17 wickets in seven matches at an average of 9.29 and an economy rate of 6.28. He ended the competition as the leading wicket-taker and was awarded the MVP of the Asia Cup.

The wrist spinner returned with impressive figures of 4-30 in his quota of four overs in the final against Pakistan and played a key role in skittling Pakistan at 146. 

AB de Villiers said on his YouTube Channel, “Kuldeep is a match-winner, guys, he’s a wicket-taker and that’s what I like about him, he’s not scared of throwing the ball up in the air and turns it both ways, and he gets important wickets at the right time. For Team India, he did so in the Asia Cup, and we’re expecting more from him.”

“Kuldeep Yadav, as per usual, absolutely outstanding with his second four-fer in the tournament,” he added.

On the other hand, Tilak Varma scored a match-winning knock of 69 runs off just 53 balls in the final clash and helped India in chasing down the target of 147 after they were left tottering at 20-3. Furthermore, Shivam Dube scored a crucial knock of 33 runs off 22 balls, and AB praised the duo for their match-winning contributions.

“Tilak Varma staying really nice and calm. 69 not out off only 53 balls. It’s quite slow for him, but that’s what was necessary for the team to win that final. And that’s what I love about players like that, they are adaptable to different situations, different conditions.”

“Also, Shivam Dube really coming to the party, and the two of them have been there for a while in the India team, haven’t really sort of stake the claim in the side to show the selectors, thank you. That’s why the selectors have backed us, but now things have changed. All of a sudden, the two of them coming to the party. Absolutely amazing to see some of the younger guys like Dube and Varma sort of become experienced, become leaders in the team,” he added.

Tilak scored 213 runs in the continental tournament and played a key role in India’s success.