In a spectacular display of skill, R Ashwin commended Kuldeep Yadav for his pivotal role in India’s resounding 4–1 series triumph against England. The fifth and final Test, held at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Bangalore on Saturday, witnessed India overpower Ben Stokes’ squad by an innings and 64 runs.
Kuldeep’s exceptional performance unfolded over four Test matches, where he claimed an impressive tally of 19 wickets. Notably, in the Dharamsala Test, he secured a notable 5-wicket haul in the first innings, followed by crucial dismissals of Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow in the second innings.
Ravichandran Ashwin, who emerged as the series’ leading wicket-taker with 26 scalps from five matches, acknowledged Kuldeep’s outstanding contributions, stating, “The way the ball is coming out of Kuldeep’s hand is unbelievable. I can’t be more happy for somebody.”
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Reflecting on his own achievements, Ravichandran Ashwin expressed his satisfaction after finishing the 5th Test with nine wickets, including a fifer, during his landmark 100th Test match.
He commented, “Very happy, can’t really put a wrapper on how I’m feeling. Lot happened, lot of talk about the 100th Test. Overwhelmed, a lot of well-wishers have come forward. Win the Test and take wickets, what more can a bowler ask for?”
Ravichandran Ashwin also shared insights into his bowling approach throughout the series, revealing, “Tried different actions, speeds, releases through the series. You need that skillset in India. Pleased with how the ball came out today, even though I went for a few. Cricket is a game played between your ears. Looks like a lot is happening because the new ball is biting off the surface.”
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The pivotal moment of the match occurred on Day 3 when India secured a commanding lead of 259 runs in their first innings, eventually bowling out England for 195 in 48.1 overs. The collective effort of the Indian squad, highlighted by Kuldeep and Ashwin’s stellar performances, sealed the series triumph in style.
