Kuldeep Yadav Shines as Impact Player in ODI Series Against South Africa

Kuldeep Yadav: A Star Performer

Kuldeep Yadav, India's exceptional spinner, was honored with the 'Impact Player of the Series' title following the recent three-match ODI series against South Africa held in Visakhapatnam. He emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the series, which India clinched 2-1, capturing nine wickets across three matches with an impressive average of 20.77 and his best performance being 4/41.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) acknowledged his outstanding performance on Instagram, stating, 'In a series dominated by batsmen, he showcased his talent with the ball. Presenting the Impact Player of the Series - Kuldeep Yadav.' Yadav's remarkable form continued as he achieved his fifth four-wicket haul against South Africa during the series' final ODI on Saturday. In his 16 ODIs against the Proteas, he has taken 36 wickets at an average of 17.58, boasting a strike rate of 21.3 and an economy rate of 4.95. His five four-wicket hauls against South Africa are the highest by any Indian bowler against a single team in ODIs, surpassing the previous records held by Zaheer Khan and Mohammed Shami.

Yadav Acknowledges Batting Stars

During the medal presentation, Yadav expressed his admiration for the batting performances of Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal in the third ODI. Jaiswal achieved his first ODI century, while both Rohit Sharma and Kohli contributed with half-centuries to secure India's victory. Kuldeep remarked, 'I don't have much to add, but congratulations to Virat bhai and Jaisu [Yashasvi Jaiswal]. He played an incredible innings today. Let's celebrate this moment.'

Jaiswal's First Century and Kohli's Dominance

Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had scores of 18 and 22 in the first two ODIs, finally found his rhythm, scoring a century off 111 balls. He finished the match unbeaten on 116 from 121 deliveries, hitting 12 fours and two sixes, leading India to a nine-wicket victory and securing the series 2-1.

Virat Kohli also showcased his exceptional form in Visakhapatnam, concluding the series with a stellar 65* in the final ODI. His innings came off just 45 balls, featuring six fours and three sixes. Kohli's record at Visakhapatnam is remarkable, with 652 runs in eight innings at an average of 108.66, including three centuries and three fifties, with a top score of 157*.