Virat Kohli preferred Axar Patel over Kuldeep Yadav for his batting ability

Kuldeep Yadav’s childhood coach Kapil Dev Pandey has criticised Virat Kohli for preferring Axar Patel over the left-arm chinaman spinner for the former’s batting ability. Pandey also praised Rohit Sharma for bringing Kuldeep back to India’s limited-overs setup and giving him a chance against the West Indies in February.

Kuldeep Yadav made an impactful start to his career as the left-arm wrist spinner formed a deadly duo alongside Yuzvendra Chahal. However, he faced a dip in his form and lost his place in the side under Virat Kohli’s captaincy. However, Kuldeep Yadav managed to mount a comeback to Team India under Rohit Sharma, who is now India’s skipper in all three formats.

Kapil Dev Pandey has expressed his gratitude to the Hitman for believing in his student.

“Whenever captains placed their confidence in Kuldeep, he delivered. He has an excellent track record in Tests. He has two hat tricks in One-Day Internationals. He has an excellent T20I record. However, he did not get enough opportunities. This is very astonishing. Kuldeep’s career is protected by Rohit Sharma. Rohit is the driving force behind Kuldeep’s comeback. He is an excellent leader who understands how to identify potential among a large group of players. Prior to the IPL, Rohit phoned Kuldeep and offered him the opportunity (against the West Indies). Kuldeep also delivered with two wickets,” Kapil Dev Pandey told the Times of India.

Virat Kohli wanted Axar Patel instead of Kuldeep Yadav

After praising Rohit Sharma, Kapil Dev Pandey criticised Virat Kohli for not having faith in his pupil.

“Rohit maintained a close check on Kuldeep, his Yo-Yo Test, and rehab reports.” Rohit was taken aback by Kuldeep’s rehabilitation program. Rohit deserves credit for Kuldeep’s resurgence. He would not be here today without Rohit, Pant, and Ponting’s assistance. Each captain has their own distinct style of captaincy and player selection. Kuldeep played a significant amount of cricket for Virat. Virat aspires to get experience on the side. He accompanied Ashwin and Jadeja. He liked Axar over Kuldeep because of Axar’s batsmanship. A captain must have faith in his players,” concluded Kapil Dev Pandey.

Kuldeep Yadav is having a decent season in the IPL so far as the left-arm spinner has accounted for 18 wickets in 10 matches, including two four-fers. He also sits 2nd in the list of the Purple Cap, behind his buddy Yuzvendra Chahal.