Motivated me a lot: Kuldeep Yadav on Rahul Dravid’s role in his ODI comeback

India’s left-arm leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav was hit all over the park during England’s tour of India in March 2021. Following that he was out of favour and struggled with his line and length. But under Rahul Dravid’s guidance and 2/48 in the first ODI against Sri Lanka on July 18, must’ve helped him forget the past and give him the much-needed confidence boost. 

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Crediting head coach Dravid for his comeback, Yadav said, “Pressure and nervousness are always there when you play. I was playing after a long time. Initially, there were a lot of conversations, Rahul sir backed and motivated me a lot. He talked about enjoying the game, believing in the process that we worked on in the last fifteen days without worrying about the result. I am very happy about the good performance.”

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Kuldeep picked up 2 wickets in a single over in the first ODI against Sri Lanka. He dismissed Bhanuka Rajapaksa (24 off 22) and Minod Bhanuka (27 off 44) within a space of 4 balls in his 3rd over.

Kuldeep was again paired with Yuzvendra Chahal after a long time in the game. Speaking about the same, the 26-year-old said, “I’m very happy that we both got to play together after quite some time. I think we’re comfortable with each other and back each other. Whenever it is needed on the field, I tell him something or he tells me things. Our bonding is good. Our performance was quite good, and the way we did well, was good for the team.”

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The cricketer also opened up about the difficulties of staying in bio-bubble and not getting an opportunity to play the match.

“It’s difficult to stay in the bubble for a long time but when you are not playing, a lot of doubts creep into your mind. Perhaps, there are a lot of people who want to help you, talk to you, but the more you talk the more doubts are created. But it’s a team sport, sometimes you get the chance, sometimes you don’t. You should just wait for that opportunity,” he added.