With India gearing up for their semi-final bout against England at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on Thursday, Piyush Chawla has suggested that the left-arm wrist-spinner, Kuldeep Yadav can be India’s game-changer through the middle overs.
The former Indian spinner, who was speaking at the ‘Caught and Bold’ show on Disney+ Hotstar, went on to deliver high praises on India’s wicket-taking spinner, lauding his comeback after his lean patch earlier.
“Kuldeep Yadav’s resurgence has been one of the greatest comebacks in the history of Indian cricket. His absence in the 2022 semi-final was a significant miss for India, but this time, he’s in prime form and ready to make a substantial impact. Kuldeep’s unorthodox left-arm wrist spin and the ability to extract turn and bounce, coupled with his deceptive variations, can be a game-changer in the middle overs,” said Chawla.
Chawla also pointed out his record against England. Kuldeep has taken a five-wicket haul against the defending champions in Manchester back in 2018. He also took a six-wicket haul against England during an ODI that took place in Nottingham during the same tour as well.
“He also has a good record playing against England. In the upcoming semi-final, Kuldeep will be crucial in disrupting England’s aggressive batting mantra. He will be India’s trump card against England’s explosive batting order. Given his current form and confidence, Kuldeep Yadav is poised to be a significant threat, making the middle overs a challenging period for England batsmen,” added Chawla, a member of India’s 2011 ODI World Cup winning team.
Looking from England’s frame, Chawla has suggested that their premier leg-spin bowler, Adik Rashid will be a key figure in dictating the terms through the middle overs. During their clash in the 2022 semi-finals, Rashid managed to take the wicket of Suryakumar Yadav which allowed England to take the win by 10 wickets.
Chawla reckons Rashid, who has picked nine wickets in the ongoing tournament with his immaculate control on pace and variations, will be an important bowler for England to control the middle overs and put the pressure on India in the highly-anticipated semi-final clash.
“Adil Rashid has been a crucial component for England in the middle overs. Rashid’s variations, including his googly and subtle changes in pace, makes him a formidable threat on the West Indian pitches. In the upcoming semi-final against India, Rashid’s role will be pivotal for England to win.
“If he can maintain his discipline and keep the pressure on, he could very well be the key for England putting pressure on Indian batsmen. His knack for breaking partnerships is especially valuable in the middle overs, a phase where the game often shifts decisively. England will be counting on Rashid to deliver a spell that not only controls the run flow but also provides breakthroughs at crucial moments,” he concluded.
(with inputs from IANS)
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