New Delhi, Oct 12 (NationPress) Renowned spinner Anil Kumble expressed his admiration for Kuldeep Yadav, commending his skills after a remarkable five-wicket haul against the West Indies in the ongoing second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

Kuldeep’s figures of 5-82 were instrumental in helping India dismiss the West Indies for 248 in their first innings, allowing India to enforce a follow-on with a substantial lead of 270 runs in the match. Kumble lauded Kuldeep’s contribution in concluding the visitors’ first innings on Sunday.

“Absolutely brilliant! I've always been a great admirer of Kuldeep Yadav, and despite limited opportunities, he continually demonstrates his match-winning potential. It’s challenging to keep up rhythm and confidence without regular play, but Kuldeep capitalized on this opportunity in the first innings,” Kumble stated on JioHotstar’s ‘Amul Cricket Live’ on Sunday.

“He played a crucial role in dismantling the West Indies batting line-up, showcasing both control and composure. I anticipate he will be pivotal again when India resumes bowling tomorrow, aiming to take the remaining wickets. Kuldeep's exceptional performances have been clear across formats whenever he has been given a chance, whether with the red or white ball,” he added.

In the West Indies' second innings, batters John Campbell and Shai Hope exhibited resilience after losing two wickets early on. The pair achieved half-centuries and formed an unbeaten 138-run partnership for the third wicket. At stumps on day three, the West Indies were 173/2, still trailing by 97 runs.

“The partnership blended caution with aggression, highlighting the true essence of West Indies cricket. The conditions favor their style, with slower pitches allowing ample time to adjust shots against the spinners,” Kumble remarked.

“The application was robust, fueled by the confidence derived from the lower order's performance in the first innings by Phillip and Pierre. The message from the lower order to play straight and apply themselves evidently resonated,” he continued.

“Campbell, despite an unusual dismissal in the first innings, batted positively against the spinners, putting pressure back on the bowling side. Shai Hope displayed his quality and talent, complementing Campbell's efforts with disciplined batting,” Kumble noted regarding the West Indies' resistance.

Former West Indies player Daren Ganga also commended the West Indies' resilience in their second innings, with Campbell remaining unbeaten on 87 and Hope not out on 66.

“I have consistently highlighted the optimism that comes with being a West Indian, and it’s encouraging to see players committing themselves to the cause. It has taken some time for them to adapt to Indian conditions and the Indian bowling attack,” he stated.

“John Campbell demonstrated great resilience after a challenging first innings, batting positively with solid defense. His judgment while sweeping was impeccable. He faced a tricky moment after passing 50 when he was initially given out, but the review rightly overturned the decision,” he added.

“Shai Hope complemented Campbell excellently with his finesse and style, proving his worth in this format despite a gap since his last half-century in 2021. This half-century, following 31 innings, will alleviate his stress and frustration, and I am confident he will aim to convert this start into a century. Overall, the West Indies demonstrated a strong fight, a fact that selectors like Anil Kumble and I appreciate. This fight makes Test cricket exhilarating,” Kumble concluded.