Kuldeep Yadav overtakes Ravi Ashwin, equals Yuzvendra Chahal in T20I milestones

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav delivered a match-winning performance in India’s opening game of the Asia Cup 2025 against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Dubai. His fiery spell not only helped India start their campaign on a high but also earned him a place in an elite list of Indian cricketers.

Kuldeep picked up four wickets while giving away just seven runs in a short spell of 2.1 overs. With this performance, he was named the Player of the Match — his fifth such award in T20 internationals. This achievement put him ahead of senior players like Ravichandran Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, and Dinesh Karthik, and allowed him to join Yuzvendra Chahal in holding the most Player of the Match awards among Indian cricketers in the shortest format.

India’s dominant win against UAE

The match began with captain Suryakumar Yadav choosing to rely heavily on spinners after quickly realising that the pitch was on the slower side. While part-time pacer Shivam Dube also made an impact with the ball, it was Kuldeep who completely dismantled the UAE batting line-up.

In the ninth over of the match, Kuldeep bowled a magical spell where he grabbed three wickets in quick succession. This sudden collapse left the UAE batters rattled and broke their momentum. By the end of their innings, UAE had been bundled out for just 57 runs — one of their lowest totals against India.

India’s chase was as clinical as their bowling. Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill started off with confident strokes and ensured there was no pressure on the team. Later, captain Suryakumar Yadav also joined in to maintain the tempo. The Men in Blue chased down the small target in just 4.3 overs, showing their dominance in all departments.

Kuldeep’s remarkable spell was the biggest highlight of the game. His ability to read the batsmen, adjust his length, and attack with sharp spin made him unplayable on the given surface. The fact that he took four wickets for only seven runs shows how destructive he was with the ball.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Kuldeep expressed his happiness at being able to perform for the team again. “Tried to hit the right length and it matters a lot, reading the batters on what they are trying to do. Even today as well, reacting to what the batters would do on the next ball,” he explained.

Kuldeep’s journey back into the team

For Kuldeep, this performance was not just about the numbers but also about proving himself once again. Since the Champions Trophy, he had not played for the national team. Many expected him to get opportunities in the five-match Test series against England, but he could not make it into the playing XI.

Despite being sidelined, the spinner kept working on his fitness and skills. He credited his trainer Adrian for keeping him in shape and helping him improve. “Thanks to Adrian, the trainer. Was working on my bowling and my fitness as well, everything is going perfectly,” Kuldeep said.

The left-arm leg-spinner admitted that the period away from the team was difficult, but he used it to sharpen his game and focus on consistency. His return against UAE was therefore not just a comeback but a statement of intent. By grabbing four wickets in a high-profile tournament like the Asia Cup, Kuldeep reminded everyone of his match-winning abilities.

His rise to join Yuzvendra Chahal in the record books for the most Player of the Match awards by an Indian in T20 internationals shows his growing influence in the shorter format. At a time when India is looking to build a strong spin department for upcoming tournaments, Kuldeep’s form will be crucial.

A valuable asset for India

Kuldeep’s ability to deliver in pressure situations makes him a valuable asset for the Indian team. His variations, control, and attacking mindset give India the edge in middle overs, where breaking partnerships is often the key to winning games.

The Asia Cup is also an important testing ground for India ahead of bigger challenges, including the World T20. Performances like Kuldeep’s against UAE will boost the team’s confidence and give the management more options when deciding the best playing combination.

For now, Kuldeep’s success is being celebrated not only for the wickets he took but also for the resilience he showed in making a strong return. His story is an inspiration to many players who struggle to find opportunities but keep working hard to stay ready.

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As the Asia Cup progresses, all eyes will be on Kuldeep to see if he can continue this form against stronger opponents. If he does, India could well have found their most reliable spinner in the format, alongside Yuzvendra Chahal.

Kuldeep Yadav’s four-wicket haul against UAE was more than just a match-winning spell — it was a reminder of his talent, determination, and ability to turn games in India’s favour. By surpassing Ravichandran Ashwin and joining Chahal in the elite list of Indian players with the most Player of the Match awards in T20 internationals, Kuldeep has cemented his reputation as one of India’s top spinners.

For Indian cricket fans, his performance is a reason to celebrate, and for the team, it is a sign of hope as they aim for glory in the Asia Cup and beyond.