Kuldeep Yadav produced a sensational spell in the first ODI against West Indies, claiming two wickets in the same over to turn the game in India’s favour. The three-match series opener is being played at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday, September 27.
West Indies made a strong start after being asked to bat first, with John Campbell and Justin Greaves putting together a 135-run opening partnership. India eventually broke the stand, and Kuldeep then delivered another major blow in the 36th over by removing the well-set Greaves.
The Indian wrist-spinner bowled a wrong’un that Greaves attempted to sweep but failed to connect cleanly. The on-field LBW decision was initially not out, but India opted for a review. Ball-tracking showed the delivery pitching on leg stump before turning enough to hit the off stump, resulting in the decision being overturned. Greaves departed for a superb 101 off 108 balls.
WATCH – Kuldeep Yadav Breaks West Indies’ Opening Partnership by Dismissing John Campbell
Kuldeep struck again from the very next delivery, dismissing Jewel Andrew for a golden duck. This time, the spinner bowled a googly that generated extra bounce. Andrew attempted to defend from the crease but edged the ball behind him. Rohit Sharma reacted quickly at first slip, jumping to complete an excellent overhead catch.
Crucial breakthroughs served with a touch of magic ✨
🎥 Watch how Kuldeep Yadav shifted the momentum for #TeamIndia 💙
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/O2cs86p4gq#INDvWI | @mflone_ | @imkuldeep18 pic.twitter.com/nAt1GOrcW2
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 27, 2026
The double strike put Kuldeep on a hat-trick, but he could not complete the feat. Nevertheless, his double-wicket maiden left West Indies reeling at 198/5 after they had earlier reached 135 without loss.
Kuldeep entered the match with an impressive ODI record against West Indies. Before the game, he had taken 33 wickets in 19 matches against the Caribbean side at an average of 21.51 and an economy rate of 4.72, with best figures of 4/6.
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He improved those numbers with another outstanding performance, finishing with four wickets after conceding 40 runs in his 10 overs. Along with Greaves and Andrew, Kuldeep also dismissed John Campbell for 62 and Shai Hope for 12. With Jasprit Bumrah absent, India needed another bowler to provide breakthroughs, and Kuldeep once again delivered when his team needed him most.
