Kuldeep Yadav doesn't mince words on recent snubs after Asia Cup heroics

Kuldeep Yadav didn’t shy away from addressing his recent snub after delivering a match-winning spell in India’s Asia Cup 2025 opener against UAE on September 10. The left-arm spinner, overlooked for India's recent Test tour of England, roared back with 4 for 7 in just 2.1 overs, making a powerful statement about his place in the side, and helping India bundle the UAE for just 57 runs.

The 30-year-old had been out of competitive action for nearly two months during India’s Test tour of England, but his sharpness on return was no accident. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Kuldeep credited India’s Strength and Conditioning coach Adrian le Roux for keeping him physically prepared during his time on the sidelines, making his comeback all the more emphatic, which led to India's record-breaking win against the UAE by 9 wickets.

India vs UAE Highlights: Asia Cup | Full scorecard

"Thanks to Adrian (le Roux) the trainer... It was tough for me (not playing). Was working on my bowling and my fitness as well, and everything was going perfect (tonight). The length matters a lot, reading the batters. Specially in this format, the length is the main thing and reading the batters and what they are trying to do. Reacting to what the batter was trying to do (off the next ball)," Kuldeep said.

India surprised many by electing to bowl first in Dubai, but the decision paid off immediately. Jasprit Bumrah, himself returning to T20Is, struck in the powerplay by cleaning up Alishan Sharafu, one of the few UAE batters who showed resistance. Varun Chakravarthy followed up by dismissing Muhammad Zohaib, leaving UAE at 41/2 after six overs.

It was Kuldeep’s introduction after the powerplay, however, that completely changed the game. In spectacular fashion, he picked up three wickets in his very first over before returning to claim his fourth, wrapping up UAE’s innings for just 58 runs. Chasing the target, India’s openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill wasted no time, with skipper Suryakumar Yadav also joining the fun. The match was finished in just 4.2 overs — India’s fastest-ever chase in T20Is and a new record for the team.

Kuldeep has long been a proven match-winner in the shortest format. Before this game, he had already taken 69 wickets from 40 T20Is at a remarkable average of 14.07, including two five-wicket hauls. He was instrumental in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph, claiming 10 wickets in five matches at an economy of under 7.

Despite those numbers, he was overlooked during the recent five-match T20I series against England, which ended 2-2. With his match-winning comeback against UAE, Kuldeep has sent a clear reminder to the selectors: he remains the same brilliant force with the ball, ready to deliver on the big stage.