NEW DELHI: Kuldeep Yadav once again proved his brilliance with the ball in the first ODI between India and South Africa in Ranchi. His wrist spin was crucial in turning the game in India’s favour, as he dismantled South Africa’s middle order at a critical stage.

Equaling legends in rare feat

With his four-wicket haul in this game, Kuldeep Yadav equaled some of India’s finest bowlers in a rare ODI feat – achieving four or more wickets against an opponent multiple times. He joins the elite list alongside:

• Kuldeep Yadav – 4 wickets vs South Africa (14 matches)
• Zaheer Khan – 4 wickets vs Zimbabwe (15 matches)
• Mohammed Shami – 4 wickets vs West Indies (18 matches)

This performance further cements his position as one of India’s top spinning options, particularly in matches against strong oppositions.

Decisive strikes

Kuldeep’s impact was felt immediately. He removed Matthew Breetzke, who had looked settled on 72, caught by Virat Kohli, and Tony de Zorzi for 39, trapped lbw. Soon after, he struck twice in quick succession to remove set batter Marco Jansen for 70, caught by Ravindra Jadeja, and Prenelan Subrayen, caught by KL Rahul.

These wickets came at a crucial stage, halting South Africa’s momentum and putting India firmly on top.