“We knew on this surface 230 can be defended” - Kuldeep Yadav on India's win against England

Team India’s veteran left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav has said that the team was confident of defending 230 in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup match against England on Sunday. According to him, it was a matter of picking up a few early wickets in the powerplay to put pressure on England.

However, India beat England by 100 runs. Sent into bat after losing the toss, the Indian team could manage 229/9 despite skipper Rohit Sharma’s 87. In response, England were bundled out for 129 all out in 34.5 overs as well. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami picked up two wickets each in the powerplay to reduce England to 39/4 as well.

Kuldeep Yadav said at a post-match press conference: “We knew on this surface a target of 230 can be defended. Rohit bhai played a good knock. It was all about getting two wickets in the Powerplay which Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami did. Then they were four down and it becomes difficult. As a spinner, I just had to maintain that pressure on England.”

The 28-year-old also stated that he felt good to bowl at his home ground, but also shared that what was even more pleasing was that they won. Kuldeep (2/24) played a key part in Team India’s win as well.

“It feels good to bowl at home. There was spin, but there was also the dew factor. It was all about bowling the right lengths. I did well but more importantly, the team won and that gives me joy.”

“I am working hard on my batting” – Kuldeep Yadav

However, before his stunning bowling performance, Kuldeep Yadav stepped up with the bat. He scored an unbeaten 9 off 13 balls and added a handy 21-run with Bumrah for the ninth wicket as well.

“I am working hard on my batting. [If] I contribute 10-15 runs, it helps the team. The last 25-odd run partnership helped us to reach a good target of 230. I felt that we can defend it. It’s not like I’m only batting in matches. I’m also working on my batting in practice,” Kuldeep Yadav concluded.