We hit the right lengths – Kuldeep Yadav reveals the key to his impressive spell against West Indies

Kuldeep Yadav was the star of India’s epic showdown with the ball against West Indies as Rohit Sharma’s men skittled out the hosts for a paltry 114. Kuldeep was awarded the Player of the Match for his impressive figures of 3-2-6-4 as the Caribbean tail wilted under circumstances forced by the left-arm spinner.

His first wicket came with a googly that spun enough to trap Dominic Drakes plumb in front, while Yannic Cariah was rapped on his pads too to bring about Kuldeep’s second scalp. Shai Hope’s resistance was brought to an end by Kuldeep, who bowled a fuller ball in line with the stumps as the West Indies skipper looked for a reverse sweep, only to miss the ball entirely. He finished things off with the scalp of Jaydon Seales as India got themselves in a comfortable position before coming out to bat.

Talking at the post-match conference, Kuldeep said, “The fast bowlers bowled really well with Mukesh, Shardul and Hardik. Me and Jaddu were brilliant, we hit the right lengths which is what was necessary on this wicket.”

He also shed some light on his strategy for the upcoming games, stating, “I'm just focusing on my rhythm, hitting the right lengths and it has been very nice. I thought it would be a seaming paradise, we are happy we got 7 wickets from our side.”

Kuldeep concluded by stating, “It was spinning a bit, and there was bounce as well. It's always good to have competition, we just try to work together. When you have a senior like Chahal, it helps you and he gives a lot of advice as well. We enjoy each other's company.”