Wasim Akram praises Kuldeep Yadav ahead of India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash

Overview

• Wasim Akram has praised India spinner Kuldeep Yadav.
• He was one of the main architects of India’s Asia Cup 2025 opener win against the UAE.
• He picked up four wickets for just seven runs.

Former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has praised India spinner Kuldeep Yadav ahead of the India-Pakistan clash on September 14. Kuldeep was one of the main architects of India’s Asia Cup 2025 opener win against the UAE, where he picked up four wickets for just seven runs.

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Speaking on Sony Sports, Akram explained how tough it is to pick Kuldeep’s variations. “Leg-spinner, googly, flipper—even I can’t read him sitting here. Even with a replay, it’s impossible,” Akram said.

The legendary pacer also recalled his coaching days for the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where he worked with Kuldeep. “I remember meeting Kuldeep when he was very young, when he joined Knight Riders. He and Mohammed Shami were with me all the time—breakfast, lunch, dinner, during the game. If they weren’t playing, they were sitting with me. They were hungry. Kuldeep was hungry,” he added.

"It was tough for me." - Kuldeep

India began their Asia Cup 2025 campaign with an emphatic win and will now face arch-rivals Pakistan. Against the UAE, Kuldeep was adjudged Player of the Match for his exceptional spell.

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During the post-match presentation, he said: “(On not playing a lot in recent months) It was tough for me. Was working on my bowling and my fitness as well (with Adrian le Roux, our Strength & Conditioning coach), and everything was going perfect (tonight). The length matters a lot, reading the batters. Especially in this format, the length is the main thing and reading the batters and what they are trying to do. Reacting to what the batter was trying to do (off the next ball).”