DC vs GT: Kuldeep Yadav openly admits regretting his KKR stay

Delhi Capitals (DC) spinner Kuldeep Yadav has shared his thoughts for the first time about his challenging stint at the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kuldeep Yadava admitted that he struggled during his time with the Kolkata-based team in the tournament.

Kuldeep Yadav struggled to secure a spot in the Kolkata Knight Riders' playing XI from 2019 to 2021, despite being a potent spinner for India. The left-arm wrist spinner managed to play only 13 matches over three seasons. He didn't get a chance to play at all during the IPL 2021 season.

Kuldeep Yadav's career saw a positive shift after he moved to the Delhi Capitals. The spin bowler has taken 41 wickets in 33 IPL matches, with an average of 22.73 and an economy rate of 7.85. It's worth mentioning that he claimed 21 wickets from 14 matches during the 2021 season.

Now I Can Dictate Terms - Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep Yadav acknowledged the need for guidance, particularly after MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2019. Kuldeep stated that his experience and newfound confidence have allowed him to dictate terms effectively.

“In KKR, I needed guidance but now I don't need it, as now I dictate terms. In 2019, Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni, his national team mentor) had retired that year and I needed guidance. The idea that I have now, has come with experience,” Kuldeep said about his success in the last one and a half years.

Still Regret My Time In KKR - Kuldeep Yadav

The 29-year-old bowler expressed regret for his time at KKR from 2016 to 2020. Kuldeep highlighted that he could have achieved more if he had worked on his skills better during that period.

"I still regret my time in KKR (from 2016-2020) and feel whatever I am doing now, wish I could have done it back then. It still hurts me that had I worked on those skills back then, I could have dominated even more,” Kuldeep further added.

It Didn't Happen Back Then - Kuldeep Yadav

“But it didn't happen back then as experience is something that you get only when you play a lot. When you encounter failure in life, then only you learn and now I am more confident about my skills and at the same time respectful of the fact that opposition can be good too,” Kuldeep continued.

Kuldeep Yadav has showcased an outstanding performance in the 2024 season. He has secured 10 wickets in 5 matches with an average of 15.20 and an economy rate of 7.60. Yadav is the leading wicket-taker for his franchise and ranks eighth in the race for the purple cap.

He will be next seen in action when the Delhi Capitals face the Gujarat Titans in their next match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Wednesday, April 24. The upcoming match will be crucial for the captains to improve their chances of reaching the play-offs.

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