Kuldeep Yadav reflects on the impact of losing two senior leaders, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, from the dressing room.
Kuldeep Yadav Steps Up Amid Senior Retirements
Kuldeep Yadav has benefited immensely from the mentorship of senior leaders like R Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli, who helped him refine his craft as a left-arm wrist spinner. However, with the rapid retirement of these stalwarts, Kuldeep now finds himself one of the more experienced players in the Indian team, especially for the upcoming England tour—a country he has toured before.
Speaking to an Indian Express panel, Kuldeep admitted that Rohit and Kohli’s retirement decisions took him by surprise. “I had an inkling that Ash bhai might retire because of his body issues, but I was shocked when Rohit bhai and Virat bhai retired. You want your senior players to stay for big series like this,” he said. Kuldeep highlighted how the presence of senior players on the team helps shoulder responsibility, allowing younger players to play freely and approach seniors with doubts and guidance.
Kuldeep Yadav also revealed the strong bond he shared with Rohit Sharma, describing him as a brother figure who provided support both on and off the field. He credited Rohit’s leadership for his growth, having been part of India’s victorious campaigns in the 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy. Now, Kuldeep is ready to embrace a bigger role and help guide the next generation.
‘Sometimes he used to scold me as well…’
Kuldeep Yadav credits Rohit Sharma for playing a pivotal role in his career resurgence. “When bowling, he used to tell me clearly what he expected and whether I was delivering it or not. If I lagged somewhere, he’d ask me to put in more effort,” Kuldeep explained. Rohit was candid, sometimes even scolding him, but always lifting him during tough times and taking great care of him as a player.
Earlier, as a young cricketer, Kuldeep broke through under Virat Kohli’s mentorship. Reflecting on his Test debut, Kuldeep said, “Virat did not play the match but handed me the cap. I was raw and immature then, but he handled me wonderfully, giving me belief that I could succeed in Tests. He always supported me, and I enjoyed playing alongside him.”
After a strong IPL season with Delhi Capitals, Kuldeep is part of India’s touring squad for the England Test series. Under new captain Shubman Gill, Kuldeep’s attacking spin could be crucial across the five-match tour, as he continues to evolve into a senior leader within the team.
