IPL 2024: It was crucial to get wickets in the middle overs to control the run rate – Kuldeep Yadav after match-winning spell against LSG

Delhi Capitals talisman spinner Kuldeep Yadav was delighted after his team’s six-wicket win against Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on Friday. Yadav returned with fine figures of 3-20 in his quota of four overs to help his team restrict the opposition to 167.

The left-arm spinner accounted for Marcus Stoinis, Nicholas Pooran, and KL Rahul in his fine spell. After Stoinis was dropped on zero by Khaleel Ahmed, Yadav was able to produce the Australian’s outside edge, which ballooned to Ishant Sharma.

Yadav then found the gulf between Nicholas Pooran’s bat and pad to dismiss the West Indian on the first ball. The in-form spinner then also got the big wicket of KL Rahul, who was looking good after scoring 39.

Yadav was awarded the Player of the Match for his fine knock.

Kuldeep Yadav said in the post-match presentation, “Was tough when I wasn’t fit. Got injured first game and was difficult to see the team struggling in the middle overs. Credit goes to Patrick (Farhart) to maintain my fitness and get me ready quickly. All three were important wickets, it was crucial to get wickets in the middle overs to control the run rate.”

He added, “I liked the first and second wicket, I have played a lot against Pooran and the execution for that was right. I was clear with my plans, just the length matters for me as a spinner. Very clear and confident with my skills. Whenever I feel the DRS call is 50/50, I try to push for it but when it is more 60/40 then I tend to listen to Rishabh. As a bowler, you obviously want to take the DRS whevever possible.”

Delhi Capitals will next take on Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Wednesday.