Asia Cup 2025: ‘Should focus on his natural ball’ - Veteran spinner backs Kuldeep Yadav to come good

Former India leg-spinner Amit Mishra has urged Kuldeep Yadav to focus on his natural variations during the Asia Cup 2025, reminding that he is a genuine breakthrough bowler. Mishra believes Kuldeep’s wicket-taking ability will be crucial on the UAE pitches during the ongoing Asia Cup. The left-arm wrist-spinner previously played a vital role in India’s title-winning run at the Champions Trophy, also played in the UAE.

Although Kuldeep travelled with the squad to England, he did not feature in a single match, despite calls from fans and former cricketers for his inclusion. He has once again been named in India’s 15-member contingent for the Asia Cup 2025, but his inclusion in the Playing XI remains a question. Mishra, however, is optimistic that Kuldeep will get his opportunity, emphasizing that the spinner should keep his focus on taking wickets and trust his abilities.

"I think he should get a chance, but the most important thing is that he should focus on his natural ball. He is a wicket-taker bowler. He should keep his mind right. He should talk to people like Gautam and the captain about the kind of field he wants and how to bowl. I think he will get a chance here," Mishra said.

"He is a good talent, but he should remember that he is a wicket-taker bowler. He should focus on the wicket and not on how many sixes or fours he is conceding. According to the wicket and the situation, the bowling can change. You should always think about the wicket. You should think about the field and how to bowl. He will get a lot of help from that," he added.

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Kuldeep has underlined his credentials in T20 internationals, picking up 69 wickets in 40 matches at an impressive average of 14.07. He has maintained an economy rate of 6.77 while striking every 12.4 deliveries, cementing his reputation as a wicket-taking option in the shortest format. In the 2024 Indian Premier League, he continued his strong form, claiming 18 wickets in 14 outings for Delhi Capitals.

India are set to open their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against the United Arab Emirates on September 10 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The much-anticipated clash against arch-rivals Pakistan will follow on September 14 at the same venue. India will then conclude their group-stage fixtures against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.