In a Test career defined more by patience than opportunities, Kuldeep Yadav has once again shown the world why he’s a special talent. On Day 3 of the ongoing second Test between India and the West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, the left-arm wrist spinner spun his way into the record books — taking 5 wickets for 82 runs in a commanding display of skill and control.
This performance didn’t just turn the tide of the match; it etched Kuldeep’s name in cricketing history. With this five-wicket haul, his fifth in just 15 Test matches, Kuldeep now holds the record for the most five-wicket hauls by a left-arm wrist spinner in Test cricket, overtaking England’s Johnny Wardle, who needed 28 Tests to achieve the same.
| Rank | Player | Country | Tests Played | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kuldeep Yadav | India | 15 | 5 |
| 2 | Johnny Wardle | England | 28 | 5 |
| 3 | Paul Adams | South Africa | 45 | 4 |
What makes Kuldeep’s achievement more remarkable is the scarcity of opportunities. Despite making his Test debut back in March 2017 against Australia, the 30-year-old has played just 15 Tests in eight years. In a spin-rich Indian setup that includes legends like R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel, Kuldeep has often found himself on the sidelines.
But every time he gets a chance, he delivers.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Test Numbers Speak Volumes
- Matches: 15
- Wickets: 65
- Average: 21.09
- Economy Rate: 3.52
- Five-Wicket Hauls: 5
Kuldeep’s numbers aren’t just good – they’re elite. His average of 21.09 is among the best for spinners in modern Test cricket. His unique bowling style, mixing flight, turn, and subtle variations, has made him a nightmare for batters – especially when the pitch starts to offer a bit of help.
Against the West Indies, he kept things tight, never allowing batters to settle, and built relentless pressure that eventually broke the opposition’s resolve. It wasn’t just about wicket-taking deliveries – it was about creating doubt, over after over.
A Star Waiting in the Wings No More?
Kuldeep’s recent performances have reignited conversations about his role in India’s Test future. Despite not featuring in the recent five-match Test series against England earlier this year, he continues to remind selectors and fans alike of his immense value in the red-ball format.
Whether this historic milestone leads to more consistent inclusion in the playing XI remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Kuldeep Yadav has earned his place among the greats of Indian spin bowling — and the best may be yet to come.
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