Team India’s left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav has given a positive update on his recovery from groin surgery ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Kuldeep Yadav has also expressed his desire to be considered for selection for the upcoming 50-over tournament, which will be played in Pakistan and Dubai.
The unorthodox left-arm spinner has been ruled out of the Test series against New Zealand at home with a groin injury. He also missed the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series in Australia. After the New Zealand series, Kuldeep was sent to the BCCI Center of Excellence for further treatment and rehabilitation.
My recovery has gone pretty well – Kuldeep Yadav
Speaking to The Telegraph, Kuldeep Yadav opened up about his recovery from a groin injury that required surgery. He confirmed that he has resumed competitive bocce and feels positive about his progress. Kuldeep added that his recovery has gone well and he has been bowling for some time.
“The recovery went quite well and I have been bowling for some time now. I feel good (about my progress),” explained Kuldeep.
Kuldeep has been absent from ODI cricket since playing against Sri Lanka in August 2024. He has 106 ODIs, with 172 wickets at an average of 26.00 and an economy rate of 4.99, including 7 four-wicket hauls and 2 hauls with five wickets. .
Kuldeep Yadav again in contention for Champions Trophy selection
Kuldeep Yadav is once again in contention for selection for the Champions Trophy next month. A BCCI source confirmed that his inclusion will depend on his recovery, but that Kuldeep’s name will definitely be discussed in the selection meeting, given his status as a bowling champion in all formats.
“Whether he will be elected or not depends on his readiness, but he will certainly be discussed at the election meeting. After all, he is a champion bowler in all formats,” a BCCI source told The Telegraph regarding Kuldeep’s place in the team.
He started bowling in the last 10 days or so – Kuldeep’s personal trainer
Kuldeep’s personal trainer, Kapil Panday, shared details about his recovery process, stating that Kuldeep has resumed bowling for the past 10 days. He added that Kuldeep is expected to get clearance from the NCA soon and expressed optimism about his possible selection for the Champions Trophy.
“He started bowling in the last 10 days or so. He will come to Kanpur after January 25 or 26 and then we will work further on his line and length, spin and other technical issues. By then, he should also receive the approval of the NCA. We are quite hopeful of his Champions Trophy selection,” said Panday.
Kuldeep Yadav could be picked for the three-match ODI series against England ahead of the Champions Trophy, allowing the coaches and management to assess his match fitness.
He was a key player in India’s white-ball line-up, spearheading the spin attack in the ODI World Cup 2023. He also played a key role in their victory in the T20 World Cup 2024, ending India’s ICC trophy drought. Fans are hoping that Kuldeep will be able to showcase his skills in the UAE, where the conditions could be in his favour.
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