India spinner Kuldeep Yadav on Thursday admitted that the pain of the World Cup final defeat to Australia will linger and push him to work harder for the “next opportunity”.
India suffered a six-wicket loss to Australia in the summit clash in Ahmedabad on November 19.
“Our journey from Chennai to Ahmedabad ended in a disappointing result, but we take pride in our achievements over the six weeks. Despite the pain, we’re determined to work harder for the next opportunity,” Kuldeep said in a post on X.
“While the pain of defeat lingers, we must move forward; life continues, and healing takes time.”
The wrist spinner though said dealing with the setback was tough. “The Cup was beautiful, but it seems God had other plans. Navigating this moment, it’s time to switch off and recharge. Dealing with this setback is tough, but we hold onto faith, believing in the journey ahead,” he said.
Kuldeep played all of India’s 11 matches in the World Cup and took 15 wickets at an average of 28.26.
“Thanks to our dedicated support staff, we were fully prepared for every opponent, and their commitment reassured us as players,” said Kuldeep.
“The love from fans at each of the 9 venues touched our hearts and motivated us to exceed our limits. We’re grateful to passionate fans worldwide and in every Indian Household for their support.”
Saksham stars on debut
Calcutta: Pacer Saksham Chaudhary shone on his List A debut as Bengal began their Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign with a nine-wicket win over Nagaland in Mumbai on Thursday.
Opting to bowl, Saksham struck thrice while Akash Deep and Karan Lal took two wickets apiece to bowl Nagaland out for 139 in 47 overs in this Group E clash.
Thereafter, Abhimanyu Easwaran (57 not out) and captain Sudip Gharami (62 not out), coming in at No.3, took only 18.5 overs to overhaul the opponents’ paltry total.
Notching up those runs in less than 19 overs bodes well for Bengal as their net run rate has soared to 4.813. Bengal next play Baroda on Saturday.
The day belonged to 24-year-old Saksham, who came on to bowl later but was quick in taking his three wickets that reduced Nagaland to 105/5 in the 34th over from 70/2 in over No.20.
Brief scores: Nagaland 139 in 47 overs (S. Chaudhary 3/23, A. Deep 2/24). Bengal 143/1 in 18.5 overs (A. Easwaran 57 n.o.; S. Gharami 62 n.o.). Bengal won by 9 wickets.
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