Dinesh Karthik has come out in support of Kuldeep Yadav after his expensive spell in the fourth ODI against New ZealandHe explained why returning to the playing XI after being left out can be a difficult challenge for a player.
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Kuldeep Yadav gets support from Dinesh Karthik after expensive spell (Photo: X)
India spinner Kuldeep Yadav had a difficult outing in the fourth ODI against New Zealand at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Friday, November 13The left-arm wrist-spinner failed to pick up a wicket and conceded 73 runs in his eight overs as the hosts posted a strong total of 333/8.
Despite his expensive spell, former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has backed Kuldeep, saying it is difficult for a player to return to international cricket and deliver immediately after spending time out of the playing XI.
Kuldeep was included in India’s team for the fourth ODI after missing the earlier matches in the seriesHowever, New Zealand’s batters attacked him from the start and did not allow him to settle into his usual rhythm.
Dinesh Karthik Explains Kuldeep’s Difficult Situation
Karthik said Kuldeep could have worked on some technical aspects of his bowling like his run-up and releaseHowever, he also highlighted the challenge of returning to competitive action after being left out of the team.
“In terms of run-up and release, I felt there was more he could have doneBut playing an international game is so much harder than just working on your skills in practiceIt’s not easy to get out of not being part of the 11 and immediately perform to a high levelHe didn’t have his best day, but I wouldn’t dig too deep into today’s performance,” Karthik said on Cricbuzz.
The former India cricketer also expressed sympathy for Kuldeep, explaining that suddenly getting an opportunity after sitting out matches can be difficult for any player.
“I feel bad for KuldeepHe has been part of the team for some time nowOn a tour like this, when you’ve not played, and suddenly play an ODI game, it could be hard workI don’t think he bowled very poorly,” he said.
Karthik added that an early wicket could have helped Kuldeep gain confidence and build momentum during his spell.
“A couple of small moments went against himHe probably needed a wicket very early in his spell to feel good about himself, which he didn’t manage todayHe tried his best, but the opportunities weren’t created as much,” he added.
Kuldeep Yadav Struggles As New Zealand Batters Attack
Kuldeep found it difficult to control the scoring as New Zealand’s batters made full use of the conditionsWill Young was particularly effective against the spinner, using his feet and finding gaps to score boundariesFinn Allen also attacked him during his stay at the crease.
Kuldeep finished with figures of 0/73 in eight overs, making him India’s most expensive bowler in the inningsIn comparison, Axar Patel picked up two wickets for 39 runs in his full quota of 10 overs.
Young finished with 125 off 108 balls and Tim Seifert contributed 58 as New Zealand eventually closed on 333 for eightIndia though had a disastrous reply being bowled out for a mere 89 in 26.4 oversMatt Henry starred with the ball, taking six wickets for 27 runs as New Zealand registered a 244-run victory.
India still lead the five-match ODI series 2-1, with the fifth and final match scheduled for Sunday, November 15.
