India vs Australia: I have followed Shane Warne since childhood, says Kuldeep Yadav

Recalling his encounter with Shane Warne earlier this year, when Anil Kumble took him to meet former Australian spinner during his last India visit, Kuldeep Yadav stated that Warne and Brad Hogg have been instrumental in shaping his career. 

“I have followed Warne since my childhood. If I become 50 percent of what he has been then my life will be successful. His wristwork, flight and deceit are important,” Yadav said.

Earlier, Yadav received one of his biggest compliment till date from his role model Warne, who tweeted that Kuldeep can go on to become the best spinner in the world. "If young Kuldeep remains patient when he’s bowling in all forms then he could challenge Yasir as the best leg spinner in the world & quickly," tweeted Warne. 

To which, Kuldeep eagerly replied, "Will keep it in mind, thanks @ShaneWarne, see you soon !"

Yadav also spoke about his valuable stint with Hogg in the Kolkata Knight Riders camp. “I still talk to him whenever I get time. Advice from senior players and experience is extremely important. He has had a career of 23 years and thereby has a lot to offer. He keeps telling me the nitty gritties of the game and it definitely helps me a lot.”

The chinaman bowler discussed his partnership with fellow wrist spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, and how their brilliant coordination is helping them pick wickets and attack the batsmen at the right time. 

Yadav said, “Chahal and I have a very good partnership. We have been playing for five years together and it easy to understand each other’s plans. It helps us to analyze how the wicket is and you can see the result at the end of the match. In the match also we bowl in tandem and it helps to build pressure on the batsman. We also talk about the behaviour and nature of wickets, how the ball is behaving after the release. These are useful chit chats on the field.”

Meanwhile, when asked if he is trying something different as his techniques are now known to the batsmen, the 22-year-old revealed that he has no worries about players who are trying to decode him by seeing videos. “I am not any mystery bowler. I am unperturbed by them and am concentrating on my basics. My focus is on controlling the ball and working on my strengths,” Yadav said.

Yadav put forth a match-winning performance in the first T20I game in Ranchi, picking up 2 wickets, while just giving 16 runs in four overs. For his exceptional performance, he was awarded the man of the match.

Ravi Rampaul or Shane Shillingford? Who will take more wickets?

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