Kuldeep Yadav faces backlash for slapping Rinku Singh after ' 14-run loss to Kolkata Knight Riders, with experts criticizing his underutilization.
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Kuldeep’s Nightmare Outing vs Rinku Singh
Delhi Capitals (DC) spinner Kuldeep Yadav endured a torrid outing against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday, conceding 27 runs in three wicketless overs as DC fell to a 14-run defeat at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
The left-arm wrist spinner was repeatedly targeted by Rinku Singh, who smashed 22 runs off just 11 deliveries from him, including three fours and a six.
KKR’s victory kept their playoff hopes alive, while DC’s inconsistent form continued.
Despite Faf du Plessis’ 62 and Axar Patel’s 43, DC were restricted to 190/9, failing to chase down KKR’s 204/9.
Kuldeep’s poor economy rate of 9.00 runs per over exacerbated DC’s bowling woes, with captain Axar Patel opting not to use him in the crucial death overs.
Slapgate: Viral Video Ignites Backlash
The post-match drama overshadowed the on-field action when Kuldeep Yadav was filmed slapping Rinku Singh twice during a meet-and-greet session.
The incident, captured by cameras, showed Rinku appearing shocked and angry after the second slap, with his facial expressions betraying discomfort.
While the pair, both hailing from Uttar Pradesh and former state teammates, may have intended the gesture as playful banter, social media erupted in criticism.
Fans accused Kuldeep of disrespect, with one user writing: “Even if this is a joke, it’s not funny. Shows a lack of respect for another player.”
Another warned: “Kuldeep shouldn’t waste the opportunity Rohit Sharma gave him with childish theatrics”.
Read More: Sunil Narine Inspires KKR’s Playoff Charge With All-Round Masterclass
Experts Slam Tactical Blunders
Cricket pundits also weighed in on Kuldeep’s underutilization.
Daren Ganga criticized DC’s decision to bowl him only three overs, stating: “Kuldeep should finish his quota regardless of the day. Not using him earlier was a missed opportunity.”
Wasim Jaffer echoed this, labeling DC’s tactics “strange” and highlighting Kuldeep’s recent success against left-handers, which could have troubled KKR’s Sunil Narine.
Kuldeep’s struggles in the match contrast with his IPL 2025 season record, where he remains DC’s second-highest wicket-taker with 12 scalps at an average of 21.91.
However, his inability to contain Rinku, who targeted his variations with a strike rate of 200, exposed vulnerabilities in his middle-overs strategy.
What’s Next for Kuldeep and DC?
With DC’s playoff hopes hanging by a thread, Kuldeep must address both his on-field performance and off-field conduct.
The BCCI has yet to comment on the incident, but fans are demanding accountability.
Meanwhile, KKR’s win keeps them in the hunt for a playoff spot, with Rinku Singh’s crucial cameo proving pivotal.
