'When you're not getting games ... ': Kuldeep Yadav on staying IPL-ready despite limited chances in T20 World Cup
Despite being benched for most of the T20 World Cup, Kuldeep Yadav maintained a positive attitude, staying involved and prepared. He emphasized the importance of consistent preparation and sticking to his strengths as an attacking spinner. Kuldeep is now eager to make an impact in IPL 2026, having already shown good form.
NEW DELHI: Who wants to sit on the bench and watch teammates take the field? Who doesn’t want to see his name on the team sheet? It can be frustrating for any player.
But Kuldeep Yadav handled it with remarkable calm. Whether it was carrying drinks, relaying the coach’s messages, bringing out bats, or applauding teammates with a smile, Kuldeep stayed fully involved with the team despite not being in the playing XI. In the recently-concluded T20 World Cup, where India lifted the title after defeating New Zealand in the final, teams often opted for spin-heavy combinations.
Kuldeep was expected to play a bigger role, but that didn’t materialise. India played eight matches in the tournament, including the final, but Kuldeep featured in just one game — the high-profile clash against Pakistan. He bowled three overs, conceded 14 runs and picked up one wicket.
After that, he did not get another opportunity in the playing XI. Ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians, Kuldeep spoke about dealing with the challenge of being benched. “Preparation becomes crucial, especially when you’re not getting games.