During a recent episode of the Stick to Cricket podcast, former India head coach Ravi Shastri shed light on an interesting off-field side of Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Speaking with Michael Vaughan, Alastair Cook, David Lloyd, and Phil Tufnell, Shastri shared a light-hearted anecdote about Kuldeep’s deep love for football, describing him as an “absolute buff.”
“You know in our (Indian) cricket team, you've got some real fanatics. I don't know who Kuldeep supports, but he is a football buff. Absolute buff. He can be an expert,” Shastri said with a laugh. “If he's not playing these Test matches, the topic inside will be football.”
Shastri’s revelation highlighted the growing connection between cricket and football among modern cricketers. Kuldeep Yadav, who is known for his crafty wrist spin on the field, appears to be equally passionate about the beautiful game off it. Although Shastri did not confirm which club or country Kuldeep backs, he emphasized that the 30-year-old spinner has an in-depth knowledge of football and could easily hold his own in a room full of experts.
As fans eagerly wait to see Kuldeep weave his magic in whites again, they can now also imagine him just as animatedly discussing formations, transfers, and match results in the dressing room.
'Jassi Bhai Toh Khelenge': Mohammed Siraj Confirms Jasprit Bumrah's Availability For IND Vs ENG 4th Test; Video
Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has provided a reassuring update on Jasprit Bumrah’s availability ahead of the crucial fourth Test against England, set to begin on July 23 at Old Trafford in Manchester. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Siraj confirmed that, as far as he knows, the pace spearhead will be back in action.
"Jassi bhai toh khelenge, jitna pata hai." Siraj stated with a smile, referring to Bumrah by his popular nickname. The update comes as welcome news for Indian fans, especially with the series delicately poised. Bumrah had been rested for the second Test as part of a workload management plan and his return is expected to add significant firepower to the Indian bowling attack.
India will be eager to level the five-match series, with England currently leading 2-1. The return of Bumrah could tilt the balance in the visitors' favor as they prepare for the high-stakes encounter in Manchester.
