cricket

Updated: Mar 14, 2019 12:06 IST

India surrendered a 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series against Australia to lose 2-3 with their 35-run defeat in Delhi. And performances of several players in the side have come under scrutiny as a consequence of the sorry capitulation at home.

The hosts had secured comprehensive wins in the first two ODIs in Vizag and Nagpur, and looked a sure bet to secure back-to-back bilateral ODI series wins over the Australians but no one quite foresaw the team’s struggles in the games in Ranchi, Mohali and Delhi.

The nature of the home team’s defeat has caused consternation and worries as it comes so close to the 2019 World Cup. While several players failed to live up to expectations, Kuldeep Yadav was one name that particularly endured a difficult time against the Australian batsmen.

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Through the course of the five games, Yadav registered his highest bowling average in a series with min 3 ODIs.

In his five appearances, Yadav bowled his full quota of 50 overs, none of which were maidens, and gave away 302 runs at an average of 30.20. He took 10 wickets for his troubles but wasn’t anywhere close to his best the Indian fans have become used to.

With the 2019 World Cup just a couple of months away, Yadav will be eager to get back to his best and help India mount a serious challenge at the quadrennial competition.

The 2019 World Cup will begin on 30 May and will conclude with the final on 14 July at Lord’s.