‘We're very relaxed’ - Kuldeep Yadav opens up on competition with Yuzvendra Chahal for ODI spot

Ahead of the 2019 ODI World Cup, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were inseparable as they were considered to be India’s biggest strength with the ball in the shorter formats of the game. However, post the semi-final defeat at the hands of New Zealand, the team management changed their style, as they became reluctant to use both wrist spinners, especially with Ravindra Jadeja available. Since then, Kuldeep and Chahal have been fighting for one spot in the playing XI, and competition is expected to heat up with the ODI World Cup drawing closer.

However, after winning the first ODI against West Indies, left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav opened up about their relationship and stated that they are very relaxed and learn a lot from each other. He also went on to add that due to team combination, both spinners cannot play at once, and have accepted that and are ready to contribute whenever the team needs it.

“We're very relaxed. We know the combination matters a lot. Sometimes he plays, sometimes I play, and our understanding is very good. We're very normal.

“He helps me a lot when I play, he tells me what I can do, what I can change. He always wants me to do well. When he plays I do the same thing, so that when he plays he performs well for the team. Maybe this is why the Kul-Cha partnership has worked so well over the years. We support and back each other,” Kuldeep was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Kuldeep picks four as India defeat West Indies

The 28-year-old was India’s wreaker-in-chief in the first ODI against West Indies. Even though he was introduced a bit late, the cricketer managed to pick up four wickets, giving away just six runs in three overs. Courtesy of his phenomenal performance, West Indies were bundled out for only 114 runs, and India eventually won the match by five wickets.

Meanwhile, Kuldeep was also adjudged as Player of the Match. Ahead of the mega tournament in October and November, he will aim to keep up with the form in order to cement his place in the playing XI.